How many are too many? K’taka govt’s lavish 149 minister-rank appointments spark debate

Bengaluru: The Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka has come under sharp criticism following a fresh round of appointments that has significantly expanded the number of individuals enjoying ministerial privileges in the state.

According to a report by CNN-News18, the government has conferred Minister of State (MoS) status on 54 additional individuals, taking the total number of those holding either Cabinet or MoS rank to 149.

While the Constitution limits the size of the Council of Ministers to 34, Karnataka currently has 32 ministers within that cap. However, the controversy stems from the government granting “ministerial status” to several others outside the formal Council of Ministers framework.

Data cited in the report indicates that 43 MLAs and nine non-legislators, including advisors and special representatives, have been given Cabinet rank. Additionally, 11 MLAs and 54 non-MLAs have been accorded MoS status. Many of the new appointees are Congress leaders heading various state-run boards and corporations.

Each of these rank-holders is entitled to a monthly salary of Rs 50,000, along with a hospitality allowance of Rs 3,000 and a house rent allowance of Rs 80,000. They also receive Rs 20,000 per month towards maintenance and staffing. The package includes up to 1,000 litres of fuel every month and daily travel allowances ranging between Rs 2,000 and Rs 2,500.

In addition to financial benefits, the appointees are provided with official staff, including personal secretaries, assistants, drivers and attenders. They are also eligible for full medical reimbursement and are extended official protocol privileges similar to state ministers at public functions.