D K Shivakumar set to take oath as Karnataka CM on June 3, Congress leader confirms

New Delhi, May 30: Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar is set to take oath as the state's next chief minister on June 3, Congress working president G C Chandrashekhar announced on Saturday amid heightened political activity within the ruling party.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Chandrashekhar said the swearing-in ceremony would be held at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan.

“A decision has now been taken that the swearing-in ceremony will be held on June 3,” Chandrashekhar said, adding that the exact timing of the oath-taking ceremony would be announced later.

He also indicated that Shivakumar would undertake a statewide tour after assuming office.

“D K Shivakumar will take oath as CM on June 3 after which he visit all district headquarters to seek public blessing,” Chandrashekhar said.

Stressing that the ceremony would be low-key, Chandrashekhar said the party had directed organisers to keep the event simple and focused on public service.

“The swearing-in ceremony should not be extravagant. It should be conducted as simply as possible and should reflect a spirit of work and service rather than display or pomp. The party has taken a decision and issued directions that the event should be conducted in a simple manner,” he said.

Meanwhile, astrologer Aaradhya, who advises Shivakumar, said he had recommended that the Congress leader take the oath of office as chief minister at 5.15 pm on June 3 at Lok Bhavan.

The announcement comes in the wake of significant developments within the Karnataka Congress following the resignation of chief minister Siddaramaiah on May 28. Although Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot accepted his resignation and dissolved the Council of Ministers, Siddaramaiah has been asked to continue as chief minister until alternative arrangements are put in place.

Ahead of a crucial Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on Saturday, Shivakumar arrived at Lok Bhavan and reiterated that the party's observers would consult the high command before the final decision is formally endorsed.

“A CLP meeting will be held in Bengaluru at 4 PM. Our two observers will arrive. We will conduct the CLP meeting in their presence, and subsequently, they will take a call after consulting with the high command,” he said on Friday.

The anticipated swearing-in is expected to conclude days of intense political consultations within the Congress and formally usher Shivakumar into the state's top post, marking a significant leadership transition in Karnataka.