DK Shivakumar Takes Charge As Karnataka CM, Unveils First 13-Member Cabinet
Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Wednesday officially assumed office as Karnataka's 25th Chief Minister, ending months of political anticipation over the state's top post. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru, also saw the induction of the first batch of ministers in the new government.
Veteran Congress leader G Parameshwar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister, while several senior faces returned to the state cabinet. The new team includes experienced lawmakers as well as younger leaders, signalling a blend of continuity and generational change within the government.
Among those inducted into the ministry were Priyank Kharge, MB Patil, KJ George, Krishna Byre Gowda, Ramalinga Reddy, Sathish Jarkiholi, KH Muniyappa, Eshwar Khandre, Byrathi Suresh, Sharan Prakash Patil and Yathindra Siddaramaiah. The composition of the cabinet reflects the Congress leadership's effort to balance regional and community representation across Karnataka.
The ceremony drew the presence of several senior Congress leaders from across the country, highlighting the political significance of Shivakumar's elevation. Party leaders described the new government as the beginning of a fresh phase focused on governance, development and organisational unity.
Political observers note that the cabinet formation has been carefully structured to accommodate major social groups and influential leaders within the party, a move aimed at maintaining internal stability after an extended leadership debate.
With the oath-taking complete, attention now shifts to portfolio allocation and the policy priorities of the new administration. The Shivakumar government is expected to outline its governance agenda in the coming days as it begins its tenure at the helm of Karnataka.
