Ajay Singh inducted into State Cabinet for first time; Kalaburagi gets third ministerial berth

Former KPCC president and six-time MLA Dinesh Gundu Rao expressed disappointment on Monday over not being included in the Cabinet led by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. In a post on X, Mr. Rao stated, "It is disappointing that after so many years of service to the State and the party, I have not been considered to serve the government in this Cabinet.

I am disappointed by decisions taken without being given any reason for my exclusion." Despite his disappointment, he vowed to continue working for the people of Karnataka, saying, "I will continue to work for my people and towards the betterment of Karnataka." Rao, the only Brahmin face in the previous Siddaramaiah government, reflected on his political journey, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the people of the State as both an MLA and a Minister.

"I truly believe I have made a difference on the ground. Being elected a six-time MLA is possible only because of the trust that people have repeatedly placed in me, and that means everything," he said. Rao emphasized his unwavering commitment to the Congress and his constituents, stating, "I have held various positions, from the Youth Congress to the District Congress, KPCC and AICC.

I have worked hard, remained fiercely loyal, stayed true to the party’s ideology, and always given my best to the people who have stood by me." He stressed that public service remained his priority, adding, "Ultimately, what drives me is a commitment to good governance, strong values and public service. I will continue to work honestly and with integrity."