Congress leaders express displeasure over portfolio allocation in DKS cabinet

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. PIC/PTI

Senior Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy on Friday resigned from the post of minister, a few days after he took oath in the DKS-led cabinet in Karnataka, expressing displeasure over allocation of portfolio.

The minister said he wanted the Bengaluru Development portfolio but was made minister for Major and Medium Irrigation projects. The resignation comes after Chief Minister DK Shivakumar allotted the portfolios on Thursday night.

"I am resigning from my post because I cannot work against my conscience," Reddy said at a press conference here. This was a major setback for the Shivakumar government, which came to power on Wednesday.

Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy tenders his resignation from the post of minister

Karnataka Minister KH Muniyappa also expressed dissatisfaction over the allocation of portfolios in the newly formed government, saying seniority had not been given due consideration and urged the Congress leadership to revisit the exercise. Muniyappa was allotted Food and Civil Supplies portfolio, though he wanted to be Social Welfare or Agriculture Minister.

Will address concerns: DKS

Shivakumar on Friday said Reddy's resignation over portfolio allocation would be resolved through discussions. He even described the senior Congress leader as a close friend and valued colleague.

Speaking to reporters here, Shivakumar said Reddy's concerns related to the nature of the department allotted to him would be addressed and asserted that there was nothing to worry about.

"Ramalinga Reddy is my colleague and a senior leader. I will discuss the matter with him and sort it out. There is nothing to worry about," the CM said.

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