India, Oct. 14 -- Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Monday brushed aside speculation over a private dinner he hosted for his ministers, questioning why a routine gathering had turned into political gossip. "Is having a meal with cabinet ministers supposed to be a major crime?" he asked, speaking to reporters after flagging off the Kittur festival torch in Bengaluru before heading to Hubballi.

The dinner, scheduled at his official residence 'Cauvery' on Monday evening, drew attention because it coincided with renewed whispers in Congress circles about a possible change in leadership and a reshuffle of portfolios. Ministers confirmed their invitations, but deputy chief minister and KPCC president DK Shivakumar's initial silence -- a...