Bengaluru: The much-awaited cabinet expansion of Karnataka state assembly is likely to take place next month when Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the state. Shah will take stock of the political situation in the state, will meet various party leaders and take feedback following which the final call will be taken.
The cabinet expansion or reshuffle is expected to be a tightrope walk for Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, considering that there are too many aspirants, from the party old guard to Congress- JD(S) rebels who are now BJP legislators. The cabinet currently has 27 members and seven berths are still vacant.
Yediyurappa has been waiting for some time now to carry out the cabinet exercise, as he was asked by BJP president J P Nadda during their meeting in New Delhi in November 18 to wait for the clearance from the central leadership.
While Yediyurappa has said the high command will decide regarding the cabinet exercise, BJP national General Secretary in-charge of Karnataka Arun Singh after attending party meetings in Shivamogga on Sunday had maintained that the expansion of the state cabinet was likely soon and it was the chief minister's prerogative.
In another significant development, top party sources have stated that Yediyurappa will continue to serve as the Chief Minister of the state and he will complete his term in the office.
Many speculate over leadership change due to Yediyurappa's age and increased interference of his family members in administration. Even party legislators have also openly raised voice against the Chief Minister for not sanctioning funds for developmental works of their constituencies.