Karnataka CM proposes inducting woman minister into state cabinet
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has placed the proposal before the Congress high command in Delhi.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Sunday that he has proposed the induction of a woman minister into the state cabinet to the Congress party's central leadership in Delhi. According to reports by ANI, the Times of India, and Deccan Chronicle, the high command has acknowledged the proposal.
Shivakumar stated he will travel to the national capital on Monday to attend the book launch of Sonia Gandhi. He said he cannot confirm if the cabinet expansion will be discussed tomorrow, but noted that the leadership mentioned they would call him to Delhi to discuss it.
The state cabinet currently has 33 ministers against a sanctioned strength of 34. Two berths remain vacant following the resignation of B Nagendra, who faced corruption charges. Shivakumar previously indicated a woman minister would be inducted before the next assembly session, which is scheduled from December 2 to 11 in Belagavi.
Addressing Bengaluru crime, the Chief Minister announced the formation of a dedicated 'Anti-Rowdy Squad' to curb rowdyism. He said the squad would bring criminal elements directly under the Commissionerate to prevent links with local police. He also mentioned the government is pursuing a crackdown to ensure a drug-free Karnataka.
On the Mekedatu reservoir project, Shivakumar said he has appealed to the Central government. He noted that while the Tamil Nadu government has the right to oppose the project, Karnataka will push ahead with its work.
Regarding the upcoming winter session at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar said Speaker G S Patil will look into reported maintenance issues.