While it may come as little or no surprise for most that Siddaramaiah is the new Karnataka chief minister, it was quite an effort to convince Congress leaders to remain united over the candidature.

Sources in Congress tell Rediff.com that Mallikarjuna Kharge another aspirant to the post would be given the railway portfolio at the centre. G Parameshwara who was also opposing Siddaramaiah has been assured of a cabinet portfolio, as well.

The Congress has also decided to make a Lingayat leader as the Deputy Chief Minister. The name of the Deputy CM came up after some leaders from the Lingayat community demanded good representation in the wake of the community voting in large numbers for the Congress.

-- Vicky Nanjappa