Bengaluru, June 3, 2026: Karnataka witnessed a historic political transition today as senior Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar was sworn in as the 34th Chief Minister of the state at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan. Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot administered the oath of office and secrecy at 4:05 pm, marking the culmination of a long and eventful political journey for the 64-year-old Congress president.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by top Congress leaders including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, alongside hundreds of enthusiastic supporters who gathered to witness the historic moment. The state government declared a half-day holiday on June 3 for employees working at Vidhana Soudha, Vikasa Soudha, and the Multi-Storeyed Government Office Building.
DK Shivakumar Takes Charge After Three-Year Wait
DK Shivakumar’s journey to the top post has been marked by persistence, setbacks, and a prolonged tussle for leadership. The eight-time MLA was elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party last week, days after outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stepped down following directions from the party high command. The leadership transition from Siddaramaiah, who had been at the helm since 2023, started last week and completed today.
The ceremony saw large crowds gathering at Lok Bhavan, with the Karnataka government imposing security arrangements and traffic diversions in the surrounding areas. An open-jeep procession was organized, symbolizing the people’s connect that has been a hallmark of Shivakumar’s political career.
The New Cabinet: Who Are the Ministers?
Along with Shivakumar, around 13 ministers are expected to take oath in the first phase of cabinet formation. Though the final list has not been officially announced, sources indicated the likely ministers include Yathindra, G Parameshwara, KH Muniyappa, UT Khader, KJ George, Krishna Byre Gowda, MB Patil, Priyank Kharge, Satish Jarkiholi, Ramalinga Reddy, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Byrati Suresh, and Eshwar Khandre. The remaining cabinet expansion is anticipated to take place after June 18, once the Rajya Sabha election process is completed.
Eight Populist Schemes Announced
Immediately after taking charge, DK Shivakumar announced eight populist schemes targeting farmers and women, a move aimed at defining his government’s policy direction. The schemes, drawn from previous welfare initiatives, include:
- Free electricity for farmers up to a certain limit
- Women-focused employment and self-help group support
- Educational assistance for underprivileged students
- Healthcare subsidies for senior citizens
- Agricultural loan waivers for small and marginal farmers
- Infrastructure development in rural Karnataka
- Skill development programs for youth
- Price stabilization measures for essential commodities
This announcement draws parallels with past welfare initiatives and aims to strengthen the Congress government’s connect with rural and women voters.
Siddaramaiah’s Graceful Exit
Outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally accompanied Shivakumar to meet the Governor, showcasing a smooth and dignified transition of power. This gesture was widely appreciated across political circles and demonstrated the maturity of Karnataka’s democratic process.
What This Means for Karnataka
With DK Shivakumar at the helm, Karnataka’s political landscape is poised for significant changes. Known for his administrative acumen and development-focused approach, the new CM is expected to prioritize infrastructure development, agricultural reforms, and digital governance. His background in business and politics positions him uniquely to attract investments to the state.
The transition also marks a generational shift in Karnataka Congress, with younger leaders like Priyank Kharge finding prominent positions in the new cabinet. This could have lasting implications for the party’s strategy in upcoming elections.
Conclusion
The swearing-in of DK Shivakumar as Karnataka’s 34th Chief Minister marks a new chapter in the state’s political history. With eight major welfare schemes announced and a full cabinet ready to take charge, the new government has set an ambitious agenda for the coming years. As Karnataka moves forward under fresh leadership, all eyes will be on how effectively Shivakumar delivers on his promises and navigates the challenges ahead.