DK Shivakumar to Take Oath as Karnataka CM on June 3: Key Details and Background

PTC Web Desk: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is set to become the 24th Chief Minister of Karnataka after being unanimously chosen as the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader during a meeting held in Bengaluru on Saturday. This decision marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

Outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who resigned from the post on May 28, proposed Shivakumar’s name during the meeting. The proposal was backed by senior Congress leader and Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara and received unanimous support from party MLAs. This move underscores the party's confidence in Shivakumar's leadership capabilities and organizational skills.

According to Congress leader Chandrashekar, the swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place on June 3 at the Glass House in Bengaluru’s Lok Bhavan. Sources within the party said a major Cabinet reshuffle is also expected along with the leadership change. Around 10 ministers from the current Cabinet may be dropped, and the state could also get four Deputy Chief Ministers. This reshuffle aims to bring fresh faces and new ideas to the government, potentially revitalizing the party's administration.

Party insiders said Shivakumar’s elevation follows the “rotational chief minister formula” worked out within the Congress leadership. Siddaramaiah served as Chief Minister from May 20, 2023, to May 28, 2026. The rotational formula is designed to ensure that different leaders get the opportunity to lead the state, promoting inclusivity and broader representation within the party.

Senior Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and KC Venugopal attended the CLP meeting as observers appointed by the party high command. During the meeting, legislators passed a resolution authorizing the Congress central leadership to take the final decision on the new CLP leader. This formal process ensures transparency and democratic decision-making within the party.

After the formal proposal, Shivakumar thanked Siddaramaiah and party legislators for their support. At one stage during the meeting, Siddaramaiah, Venugopal, and Surjewala held a separate discussion before the session resumed and Shivakumar’s name was officially approved. This collaborative approach highlights the party's commitment to consensus and unity.

DK Shivakumar, one of the wealthiest politicians in the country, has declared assets worth more than Rs 1,413 crore in his election affidavit. He is associated with businesses related to real estate, mining, and hospitality. His affidavit also mentions liabilities of over Rs 263 crore. This financial transparency is crucial in maintaining public trust and accountability.

Born in 1962 in Kanakapura near Bengaluru, Shivakumar belongs to the Vokkaliga community and represents the Kanakapura Assembly constituency. Within the Congress, he is known as a strong organizational leader who has often played a key role in keeping party legislators united during political crises. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes and maintain party cohesion is one of his key strengths.

Shivakumar has also faced several legal and financial investigations over the years. More than 19 criminal cases have reportedly been registered against him. The Enforcement Directorate is investigating him in money laundering cases, while the CBI has also probed allegations related to disproportionate assets. In 2019, he was arrested in connection with a money laundering case and spent nearly 50 days in Delhi’s Tihar Jail. Despite these challenges, Shivakumar has maintained his political influence and continues to be a significant figure in Karnataka's political scene.

As DK Shivakumar prepares to take the oath as Karnataka's new Chief Minister, the state looks forward to a new chapter in governance and development. The coming days will be crucial in shaping the future of Karnataka under his leadership.