Karnataka Cabinet reaches full capacity with 20 new appointments

Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office to 20 new ministers at Bengaluru’s Lok Bhavan on Monday, bringing the Karnataka cabinet to its maximum strength of 34 members. This expansion, finalized two months into the current administration, aims to solidify the government’s structure following approval from the Congress high command.

Editorial·August 3, 2026·reads: 767

Karnataka Cabinet reaches full capacity with 20 new appointments

The induction includes a mix of 12 new faces and 8 returning incumbents, with Gayathri Shanthegowda serving as the sole woman among the latest appointees. Notable figures joining the executive branch include Laxman Savadi, B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan, and Santosh Lad. Following the ceremony, N Chaluvarayaswamy emphasized his commitment to the responsibilities assigned by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and party leadership.

Beyond the cabinet expansion, the Congress party moved to finalize key legislative roles. G S Patil has been selected as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, with A S Ponnanna named Deputy Speaker. Meanwhile, Saleem Ahmed and Umashree take on leadership roles within the Legislative Council. The transition was not without friction; MLAs Yashavantarayagouda V Patil and Belur Gopalakrishna resigned their seats after failing to secure spots in the new lineup, highlighting the intense internal competition for ministerial positions as the party looks toward the 2028 state electoral cycle.