D K Shivakumar Takes Oath as 25th Chief Minister of Karnataka: Historic Leadership Transition Sparks New Hope
Triumphant D K Shivakumar Sworn In as 25th Karnataka CM
In a powerful display of Congress unity and grassroots enthusiasm, senior leader D K Shivakumar took oath as the 25th Chief Minister of Karnataka on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. The emotional ceremony at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan, Bengaluru, marked a significant milestone in the state’s political landscape, igniting fresh optimism among millions of Kannadigas.
D K Shivakumar, popularly known as DKS, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. The event unfolded amidst thunderous cheers from Congress workers, with slogans echoing “DKS! DKS!” filling the air as soon as he began reading the oath: “I, D K Shivakumar, will take oath as the CM.”
Clad in a traditional silk kurta and lungi with a shalya draped elegantly, D K Shivakumar performed a Sashtanga Namaskar from the podium, bowing deeply to the people of Karnataka. This humble gesture symbolized his commitment to serve the state with devotion and humility. He also paid rich tributes to the late seer Gangadhara Ajjayya of Nonavinakere Mutt, holding a copy of the Constitution while taking the oath in the seer’s name — a touching nod to the spiritual guide he credits for his remarkable political journey.
Star-Studded Gathering and Congress Unity on Display
The swearing-in ceremony witnessed a massive show of strength by the Congress party. All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi graced the occasion with their presence. Other prominent attendees included Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and several senior Congress leaders like former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushilkumar Shinde.
Adding a spiritual and inclusive touch, around 30 swamijis from various mutts, religious leaders from different faiths, prominent actors, businessmen, and well-wishers attended the event. This broad representation underscored D K Shivakumar‘s wide appeal across communities in Karnataka.
Alongside D K Shivakumar, senior leader G Parameshwara took oath as Deputy Chief Minister for his second stint. Parameshwara previously served as deputy to H D Kumaraswamy in the Congress-JDS coalition government.
Strong Ministerial Team: Experience Meets Continuity
D K Shivakumar‘s cabinet boasts a blend of experience and loyalty. The following MLAs took oath as ministers:
- K H Muniyappa
- K J George
- Ramalinga Reddy
- M B Patil
- Satish Jarkiholi
- Krishna Byregowda
- U T Khader
- Priyank Kharge
- Sharanprakash Patil
- Yathindra Siddaramaiah
- Eshwar Khandre
- Byrathi Suresh
Most ministers, except U T Khader and Yathindra Siddaramaiah, served in the previous Siddaramaiah cabinet, ensuring administrative continuity. Portfolio allocation is expected shortly, with speculation that G Parameshwara may handle Revenue, Priyank Kharge could get Home, and several others retaining their previous departments.
This expanded team of 13 ministers signals D K Shivakumar‘s focus on inclusive governance and balancing various factions within the Congress in Karnataka.
PM Modi Congratulates D K Shivakumar
In a notable gesture of federal spirit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm congratulations to the new Chief Minister. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: “Congratulations to Shri D K Shivakumar Ji on taking the oath as Chief Minister of Karnataka. Best wishes for his tenure. The Centre will work closely with the Karnataka Government for the welfare of the people.”
Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy also congratulated D K Shivakumar, expressing confidence that he would utilize the opportunity effectively for the state’s progress.
D K Shivakumar’s Humble ‘Modi Act’ Wins Hearts
In a move reminiscent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s iconic gesture in 2014, D K Shivakumar knelt and touched his head to the steps leading to his office before entering Vidhana Soudha for the first time as Chief Minister. This powerful act of humility quickly went viral and drew widespread appreciation.
Before entering the historic building, the new CM garlanded statues of Dr B R Ambedkar, Mahatma Gandhi, Basavanna, and other luminaries, reaffirming his commitment to social justice, unity, and Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.
Who is D K Shivakumar? A Journey of Perseverance
D K Shivakumar (born May 15, 1962) has risen through the ranks with determination. An eight-time legislator, he began as a student leader in the 1980s and won his first Assembly election in 1989 from Sathanur. He has represented Kanakapura since 2008.
Known as the “rock of Congress” in Karnataka, DKS served as Deputy Chief Minister from 2023-2026 and played a pivotal role in the party’s 2023 Assembly victory. His organizational skills, grassroots connect, and ability to navigate complex political situations have earned him respect across party lines. A successful businessman, he is also one of the wealthiest politicians, with declared assets exceeding ₹1,400 crore.
His elevation fulfills a long-standing aspiration and honors an alleged power-sharing understanding within Congress after the 2023 polls. The smooth transition from Siddaramaiah is being viewed as a masterstroke by the high command to counter anti-incumbency and prepare for the 2028 elections.
Implications for Karnataka: Development, Welfare, and Unity
Analysts believe D K Shivakumar‘s leadership will bring dynamic governance focused on:
- Strengthening rural economy
- Infrastructure push
- Social welfare schemes
- Maintaining communal harmony
His deep understanding of Vokkaliga community dynamics and experience in Old Mysuru region could prove crucial in upcoming electoral battles against BJP-JD(S) alliance.
The new Chief Minister is expected to hit the ground running, with immediate priorities including portfolio distribution, reviewing ongoing projects, and addressing farmers’ and youth issues.
Historic Context and Bright Future Ahead
D K Shivakumar becomes the latest in Karnataka’s line of distinguished Chief Ministers. The ceremony not only celebrated a personal triumph but also projected Congress’s unity and readiness to deliver good governance.
As Karnataka enters the D K Shivakumar era, expectations are sky-high. Supporters are optimistic that his energetic style, combined with administrative experience, will accelerate development and fulfill the aspirations of 6.5 crore Kannadigas.
Congress leaders have described this transition as “seamless and strategic,” aimed at refreshing the party’s image while building on the welfare foundations laid by the previous government.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Karnataka
The oath-taking of D K Shivakumar as the 25th Chief Minister of Karnataka will be remembered as a moment of high emotion, deep symbolism, and renewed hope. From his Sashtanga Namaskar to the Modi-style humble entry into Vidhana Soudha, every gesture reflected a leader ready to serve with sincerity.
With a strong team, central leadership backing, and people’s blessings, D K Shivakumar is poised to chart an ambitious course for Karnataka — one that blends tradition with progress, humility with decisive action.
Stay tuned with us for exclusive updates on portfolio allocation, policy announcements, and the vision document of the new D K Shivakumar government in Karnataka.
