Karnataka’s D.K. Shivakumar Sworn In As 24th Chief Minister Amid Political Transition

Bengaluru, June 3, 2026 – D.K. Shivakumar was sworn in as the 24th Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, assuming office at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru amid a ceremonial procession that underscored the state’s political transition and cultural traditions. The oath-taking ceremony marked the formal handover of power following the resignation of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, whose tenure had been marked by a coalition government and social welfare initiatives.

Shivakumar, a senior Congress leader and longtime associate of Siddaramaiah, took the oath of office and secrecy in the presence of Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot. Notably, he invoked the names of late seer Gangadhar Ajjayya and constitutional architect Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, reflecting the influence of both spiritual and secular symbols in Karnataka’s political ethos. His oath was followed by a traditional walk along Lok Bhavan Road, where supporters lined the streets, chanting his name in a display of public enthusiasm.

Accompanying Shivakumar in the new cabinet were 13 ministers, including G. Parameshwara, who was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. The lineup also included two new entrants: Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of the former Chief Minister, and U.T. Khader, both of whom were appointed to key portfolios. Other ministers sworn in included M.B. Patil, K.J. George, K.H. Muniyappa, and Satish Jarkiholi, among others.

The ceremony was marked by cultural and religious rituals, including floral tributes to historical figures such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, social reformer Basavanna, and Bengaluru’s founder Nadaprabhu Kempegowda. Shivakumar also visited the Muneshwara Swami temple within the Vidhana Soudha premises, offering prayers before formally entering his office. Traditional drum performances and public celebrations further highlighted the significance of the occasion.

Political Transition and Leadership Shifts

The swearing-in ceremony coincided with organizational changes within the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC). Senior Congress leader B.K. Hariprasad was appointed as the new president of the KPCC, a move aimed at consolidating party leadership ahead of upcoming political challenges. Hariprasad’s appointment signals a strategic realignment within the state unit, with expectations that he will play a pivotal role in coordinating party activities and strengthening Congress’s position in Karnataka.

Shivakumar’s ascent to the Chief Minister’s post reflects his long-standing association with Siddaramaiah, whose political legacy continues to shape Karnataka’s governance. As he prepares to take charge, Shivakumar has emphasized his commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Karnataka, a sentiment echoed in his first public address following the oath ceremony.

Reactions and Next Steps

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Shivakumar, stating that he would work closely with the new Karnataka government. The comment underscores the federal government’s recognition of the political transition and its potential implications for national-state relations. Meanwhile, political analysts note that Shivakumar’s administration will face immediate challenges, including economic recovery, infrastructure development, and maintaining coalition stability.

The swearing-in ceremony concluded with Shivakumar formally entering the Chief Minister’s office at Vidhana Soudha, where he performed a puja in his official chamber before assuming his duties. His first official act as Chief Minister is expected to focus on addressing the priorities of the state, including job creation, agricultural support, and educational reforms.

As Karnataka enters a new political chapter, the focus remains on how Shivakumar’s administration will navigate the complexities of governance while honoring the state’s rich cultural and political heritage.