The Karnataka government has assigned Cabinet rank to 43 MLAs and MLCs and granted Minister of State status to 53 party workers heading government boards and corporations. This decision adds strain to the state budget, which is already dependent on heavy borrowing for capital projects. Currently, Karnataka has 31 constitutionally approved Cabinet Ministers, with two vacancies. Alongside these, many legislators have taken advisory and key roles like legal, economic, and political advisers to the Chief Minister. All these posts carry either Cabinet or Minister of State rank. The total number of individuals enjoying Cabinet or minister-level privileges now surpasses the number of Congress MLAs in the assembly. According to party sources, these appointments aim to boost cadre morale, especially ahead of rural and urban local elections. Although not formal ministers, these members receive perks equal to ministers: offices, staff, security, vehicles, salary, accommodation, phones, and travel allowances. The 91st Constitutional Amendment limits the Council of Ministers to 15% of assembly strength. To handle pressure from senior legislators not in the Cabinet, CM Siddaramaiah has granted Cabinet rank to many members to manage internal party unity. Opposition parties BJP and JD(S) allege the Congress is using these appointments for political gain. They warn this adds to fiscal stress following costly guarantee schemes, affecting funds meant for SC and ST welfare and infrastructure. The government defends the move as necessary political management amid an upcoming election cycle.