DK Shivakumar Reveals He Pushed for Ramalinga Reddy, But Party Picked Krishna Byre Gowda

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday admitted that he had earlier assured senior Congress leader Ramalinga Reddy that he would be given the Bengaluru Urban Development portfolio, but said the party leadership later decided to allocate the department to Krishna Byre Gowda.

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar said he had made efforts to secure the portfolio for Reddy, describing him as one of the party's most senior leaders.

"It is true that I had earlier told Ramalinga Reddy that I would give him the Bengaluru Urban Development portfolio. Ramalinga Reddy is one of our most senior leaders. When the Transport portfolio was allotted to him, my brother and I had persuaded him to accept it," Shivakumar said.

The chief minister said Reddy was also given charge of the Muzrai Department, which was previously held by Minister Sudhakar.

However, Shivakumar said the final decision on the Bengaluru Urban Development portfolio was taken by the party leadership.

"The party seniors have now decided to give the Bengaluru Urban Development portfolio to Krishna Byre Gowda. I made my effort, but the party has taken this decision," he said.

Highlighting Reddy's political background, Shivakumar said the veteran leader has deep roots in urban administration.

"Ramalinga Reddy was born and brought up in an urban area and began his political career as a municipal councillor. I will speak to him about this," he added.

The chief minister's remarks come amid reports of discontent among some Congress leaders over the allocation of portfolios in the Karnataka cabinet.

When asked whether changes could be made to Reddy's existing responsibilities, Shivakumar said decisions taken by the party leadership could not be altered at an individual level.

"Whatever decision is made, it cannot be changed by setting aside decisions taken by the party seniors," he said.

Shivakumar also responded to reports of Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa expressing dissatisfaction over his portfolio allocation.

According to the chief minister, Rahul Gandhi spoke with Muniyappa following his concerns.

"Rahul Gandhi spoke with Muniyappa, and he has said he will accept whatever responsibility the party gives him and work for the party," Shivakumar said.

The statements come as the Congress leadership seeks to address concerns raised by senior leaders following the allocation of portfolios in the Karnataka government.