BENGALURU: Women legislators in the Congress party are demanding at least two ministerial berths in the new government formed in Karnataka. They argue that women are underrepresented, as the outgoing cabinet had only one woman minister, Laxmi Hebbalkar, despite the party having five women MLAs.
Context of the Demand
The demand comes at a time when national discussions on women's representation have been revived. It gains particular significance given Karnataka's historically poor record in this regard. Hebbalkar, who was the sole woman minister in the previous government, stated, "Given the debate over 33% reservation, this is the right time for more representation for women. The party high command definitely will induct more than two." She also dismissed speculation that she was seeking the deputy chief minister's post.
Party's National Stance
While Congress supported the Women's Reservation Act passed in 2023, it recently opposed the NDA government's Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which linked reservation to delimitation and expansion of Lok Sabha seats. This context adds weight to the local demand for greater representation.
Support from MLAs
Motamma, Nayana Mudigere MLA, said increased representation will strengthen the party's commitment to women's empowerment. "Such a move will reflect well on the party," she said. Other MLAs, including M Roopakala Shashidhar from KGF and Kaneez Fathima from Gulbarga North, both strong contenders for cabinet berths, also backed greater opportunities for women functionaries. Fathima admitted that she had thrown her hat in the ring for a cabinet berth.
