Yadgir, Jun 13 (UNI) With speculations rife over an impending reshuffle in the Karnataka Cabinet, senior Congress MLA Ajay Singh on Friday expressed optimism about securing a ministerial berth, citing his loyalty to the party and a record of consistent public service.
Addressing reporters during his visit to Yadgir, Singh, the son of former Chief Minister Dharam Singh, said, "It’s been 12–13 years now. During my tenure as an MLA, I have kept working consistently. Earlier, I was given the opportunity to serve as a special representative to the government in Delhi. After that, I spent around three and a half years in the Opposition, during which time Siddaramaiah was the honoured Leader of the Opposition with Cabinet rank. Even during that period, I was given responsibilities."
Emphasising his commitment to the party, Singh stated, "Even now, I have aspirations that I will be made a minister. But I have always stood by the party and remained committed. I have full faith that this time I will definitely be given an opportunity."
Singh’s comments come at a time when pressure is mounting on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to expand or rejig the Cabinet to accommodate aspirants from various regions and communities, particularly from North Karnataka. Several senior leaders from Kalyana Karnataka, including Singh, have been vocal about the need for fair regional representation.
Political analysts note that the Congress high command is actively considering a reshuffle to balance caste and regional equations ahead of crucial local body elections and the 2026 Assembly halfway mark. The recent rumblings within the party ranks—over perceived neglect and lack of Cabinet opportunities—have added fuel to the reshuffle discourse.
Referring to his work in the Kalyana Karnataka Development Board, Singh said the Board had undertaken several developmental projects and ensured proper disbursal of grants. "We’ve worked hard. I have full faith that I will be made a minister," he reiterated. UNI BDN SSP