DK Shivakumar Takes Oath as Karnataka Chief Minister, Marks New Chapter for Congress

Shivakumar assumed office alongside a 13-member Council of Ministers. Senior Congress leader G. Parameshwara was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. The change in leadership follows the resignation of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah last week after internal consultations within the party.

The Congress high command selected Shivakumar to lead the state, citing his organizational capabilities and leadership experience as key factors in the decision. Party leaders view the transition as an effort to reinvigorate the organization and strengthen its position ahead of upcoming electoral challenges.

Before taking the oath, Shivakumar met senior party leaders and sought their blessings. He also greeted supporters and pledged to work toward the state's progress and development. The ceremony was attended by prominent Congress figures, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi, underscoring the significance of the leadership change.

Meanwhile, a separate controversy emerged ahead of the swearing-in ceremony after a newspaper published an image portraying Shivakumar as Lord Shiva. The illustration drew criticism from several quarters, with detractors describing it as blasphemous and inappropriate.

Shivakumar’s elevation to the state's highest office represents a major political development in Karnataka and signals the Congress party’s strategy to project new leadership while preparing for future electoral battles.