Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa on Thursday expanded his ministry by inducting rebel MLA M.P. Renukacharya into his cabinet, in an apparent move to quell dissidence in the ruling BJP in Karnataka.
Renukacharya, a prominent dissident who had questioned Yeddyurappa’s leadership, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by governor H.R. Bharadwaj.
With his induction, the number of ministers rose to 34.
Renukacharya said he had been inducted with the blessings of senior leaders.
He said he had not been allotted any portfolio, but would diligently do the work entrusted to him.
The induction of Renukacharya, who was part of the campaign led by the Reddy brothers to oust Yeddyurappa, had been opposed by some. However, the chief minister ignored their protests.
Renukacharya is facing criminal charges in a sexual harassment case.