Portfolio allocation in Karnataka unlikely to occur over the weekend: Report

Congress leader Siddaramaiah marked his return to the position of CM after five years as he took oath as the Chief Minister of Karnataka and D K Shivakumar took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state in the ceremony. 

As per a report by The Economic Times, it is anticipated prior to the monsoon session of the state assembly, as disclosed by insiders from the Congress party.

However, the allocation of portfolios is not expected to occur over the weekend.

As per the report, the ministry has the potential to accommodate a maximum of 34 members, including the Chief Minister. It is anticipated that four positions will remain unfilled to accommodate individuals or groups who might have grievances or dissatisfaction.

Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office and secrecy to both leaders at the swearing-in ceremony.

Dr G Parameshwara, KH Muniyappa, KJ George, and MB Patil also took oath as cabinet ministers in the newly-elected Karnataka Government. Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar on Friday met senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to discuss all possible names to be inducted into the cabinet and formally invite the Congress high command for the swearing-in ceremony on Saturday.

Sources within the AICC in Delhi revealed that the list would strive for a balanced representation in terms of social backgrounds, age groups, and genders. The leadership is keen on ensuring ministerial representation for key communities such as Lingayats, Vokkaligas, OBCs, SC/STs, minorities, as well as prioritizing the inclusion of youth and women.

The report stated that the party was facing the task of narrowing down the candidates based on their caste and regional backgrounds before making final decisions. The selection process presented a challenge for the Congress as the party secured 135 seats in the 224-member assembly, with many of the elected members being experienced seniors and former ministers.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and party president Mallikarjun Kharge, highlighting their support for the united opposition's efforts against the BJP. Here are 10 notable highlights of opposition parties' participation in the ceremony.