Karnataka CM Shivakumar Addresses Criticism Over Lack of Women Ministers in Cabinet
'There are lot of vacancies, not about any one person': CM Shivakumar on criticism over absence of women ministers

Image: Deccan Herald
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar responded to criticism regarding the absence of women ministers in his newly formed cabinet, emphasizing that the situation is not about individual representation and that there are still vacancies to be filled. He highlighted the government's initiatives aimed at empowering women.
- 01Shivakumar stated that the Cabinet's composition is not focused on any single individual and there are more vacancies available.
- 02The Congress government has introduced numerous schemes aimed at women's empowerment, which Shivakumar claims set a national model.
- 03The omission of women ministers drew criticism from the state BJP and former Governor Margaret Alva, who expressed her disappointment on social media.
- 04Shivakumar's cabinet includes 13 ministers, with 11 being part of the previous Siddaramaiah government.
- 05Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and U T Khader are the only new faces in the cabinet.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar addressed the backlash over the absence of women ministers in his newly formed cabinet, stating that the situation is not centered on any individual and that there remain vacancies to be filled. He emphasized the government's commitment to women's empowerment, citing various schemes introduced by the Congress government that he believes set a precedent for the nation. The lack of female representation has sparked criticism from the state BJP and notable figures, including former Governor Margaret Alva, who expressed her disappointment on social media. Shivakumar's cabinet was sworn in with 13 ministers, of which 11 were previously part of the Siddaramaiah administration. Notably, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, the son of the former Chief Minister, and U T Khader are the only new additions to the cabinet, while the absence of women ministers in this initial phase has raised concerns about gender representation in governance.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The absence of women ministers in the Karnataka cabinet could affect gender representation in state governance.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What is your opinion on the absence of women ministers in the Karnataka cabinet?
Connecting to poll...
More about Congress party

Karnataka Muslim Leaders Demand Cabinet Representation Amid Electoral Warnings
News 18 • Jun 4, 2026
Congress Criticizes Modi Government's Economic Management Amid Investment Concerns
The Economic Times • Jun 4, 2026

Congress MP Manickam Tagore Stands Firm Against Mekedatu Dam Project
News 18 • Jun 4, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




