Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar in Delhi; Cabinet Reshuffle on the Cards After Bengaluru Stampede. Meeting with Congress High Command; Caste Census Also on the Agenda.
Karnataka: Speculation is rife regarding significant political developments in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have arrived in Delhi, with reports suggesting an imminent cabinet reshuffle. This follows the recent stampede in Bengaluru that claimed 11 lives. The Congress party is now attempting to salvage its image in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Delhi Visit and Cabinet Reshuffle Discussions
Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar arrived in Delhi on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. They are reportedly scheduled to meet senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, K.C. Venugopal, and Randeep Surjewala. Sources indicate that a major decision regarding a cabinet reshuffle may be taken during these meetings.
However, Karnataka's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, stated his unawareness of the CM and Deputy CM's reasons for visiting Delhi. He speculated that they might be briefing senior party leaders about the Bengaluru stampede. Parameshwara added that he would also travel to Delhi if summoned.
Bengaluru Stampede Exacerbates Challenges
A stampede occurred outside Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025, during celebrations following RCB's IPL victory. The incident resulted in 11 deaths and 56 injuries, placing the Karnataka government under immense pressure. The BJP and JD(S) demanded the resignations of Siddaramaiah, D.K. Shivakumar, and Home Minister Parameshwara, with the BJP characterizing it as "state negligence."
The incident has raised serious questions about the Congress government's competence. Reports suggest that Rahul Gandhi is displeased and may advocate for significant changes. The party now aims to demonstrate its commitment to rectifying its mistakes through a cabinet reshuffle.
Possibility of New Faces in the Cabinet
Sources suggest that senior leaders B.K. Hariprasad and R.V. Deshpandé may be inducted into the cabinet. Furthermore, changes to the portfolios held by D.K. Shivakumar and G. Parameshwara are anticipated. There is also discussion regarding replacing D.K. Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Congress president, with a new face.
The Chief Minister's Office is also witnessing significant activity. K. Govindaraj, Siddaramaiah's political secretary, was recently removed, and further removals are expected.
Caste Census Also to be Discussed
Besides the cabinet reshuffle, the Delhi meeting is expected to address the caste census. Discussions are underway regarding the release of the already prepared socio-economic survey report or conducting a new survey, similar to Telangana. Some leaders advocate for postponing the survey to avoid potential political repercussions for the party.
The caste census is a significant issue in Karnataka, with differing views on its implementation. While some favor its implementation, others perceive it as a political risk. The high command's decision will be crucial.
