First-time MLA should be considered for cabinet posts: Ravikumar

Mandya: Mandya MLA Ravikumar Ganiga, who is close to CM-elect DK Shivakumar, on Sunday said capable first-time MLAs should also be considered for ministerial positions.He specifically named Ashok Rai, Shivaganga Basavaraju, Bharath Reddy and Pradeep Eshwar as deserving candidates for opportunities in the Shivakumar cabinet. He also clarified that he was not seeking a ministerial berth despite being a first-time MLA.Speaking to reporters, the first-time MLA recalled that Shivakumar stood by him during difficult times and expressed happiness over the smooth leadership transition in the party.The MLA also strongly advocated for greater representation for Mandya district in the new cabinet. He said Nagamangala MLA N Cheluvarayaswamy performed exceptionally well in the Siddaramaiah govt and deserved continuation, while he highlighted the credentials of Srirangapatna MLA Ramesh Bandisiddegowda, a three-time legislator from a family with a strong political legacy. Ganiga urged the party leadership to allocate two ministerial berths to Mandya district, arguing that enhanced representation would accelerate developmental works and strengthen the district’s voice in the govt.