DK Shivakumar became Karnataka’s new Chief Minister on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment for the Congress party in the state.
The 64-year-old Vokkaliga leader from Kanakapura took oath at Lok Bhavan, administered by Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, after being elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party on May 30.
Shivakumar’s elevation represents the culmination of a decades-long journey as the party’s most reliable troubleshooter. Known as “DK Shi,” he built his reputation as a dealmaker and organiser who kept the Congress united through defections, crises, and electoral battles. His appointment follows Siddaramaiah’s resignation last week, ending a prolonged power struggle between the two leaders.
The new chief minister assumes office with significant political capital and high expectations. Widely regarded as one of the Congress’s most influential leaders in southern India, Shivakumar played a central role in the party’s revival in Karnataka and its electoral successes over the past decade.
The swearing-in also reflected the Congress’s effort to balance continuity with change. Senior leader G. Parameshwara took oath as deputy chief minister, while the first batch of ministers included veterans K.H. Muniyappa, K.J. George, M.B. Patil, Ramalinga Reddy, Satish Jarkiholi, Krishna Byre Gowda, Priyank Kharge, U.T. Khader, Eshwar Khandre, Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Byrathi Suresh, and Sharan Prakash Patil. The line-up blends experienced administrators with emerging leaders, ensuring representation across Karnataka’s diverse regions.
Even as the ceremony unfolded, negotiations continued over the final shape of the 34-member ministry. Shivakumar downplayed speculation about appointments, stressing that the party high command in Delhi would finalise the list.
