Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar provided key clarifications on Wednesday regarding cabinet re-inductions and ongoing administrative appointments. Speaking to reporters during a public event, the Chief Minister firmly defended the decision to reinstate B. Nagendra into the state council of ministers. He explained that an official investigation report into the alleged Valmiki Corporation financial irregularities found no evidence linking Nagendra to the wrongdoing, clearing the way for his return to administrative duties.
Valmiki Corporation Scam Probe and Nagendra's Reinstatement
B. Nagendra had previously stepped down from his ministerial post taking moral responsibility when allegations surfaced regarding the Valmiki Corporation scam. Addressing the probe outcome, Chief Minister Shivakumar noted, "It was not done by Nagendra." He revealed that investigating agencies conducted a thorough inquiry into the matter, during which approximately 95 percent of the misappropriated funds were successfully recovered. With the official investigation report completely exonerating Nagendra, the government decided to restore his cabinet role.
Women's Representation in Cabinet and Vacant Slot
Responding to queries concerning gender representation in the state administration, Shivakumar reiterated that the Congress party remains firmly dedicated to empowering women. He announced that the formal procedure to appoint a female leader to the state cabinet is actively underway and expected to be finalized within the next few days.
The state government led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had carried out its first major cabinet expansion on 03 August 2026 at the Glass House inside Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. During that ceremony, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office and secrecy to 19 new ministers. Although the Congress party had initially released a list containing 20 names including Legislative Council member (MLC) Gayatri Shantagowda, her name was withdrawn at the last moment before the swearing-in ceremony. Karnataka has a total of 34 sanctioned ministerial slots, with 33 currently occupied, leaving exactly one vacant position reserved for an incoming female minister.
Cauvery Water Dispute and Mekedatu Project Position
On the sensitive issue of Cauvery river water sharing, Chief Minister Shivakumar reaffirmed that Karnataka will strictly abide by all rulings and directions issued by the Supreme Court. The state administration will regulate water releases to Tamil Nadu in total compliance with judicial mandates. Furthermore, he highlighted the proposed Mekedatu reservoir project, emphasizing that its fundamental objective is fulfilling drinking water needs for Bengaluru as well as Tamil Nadu, making it a critical infrastructure endeavor for Karnataka's water security.
