D.K. Shivakumar Set to Take Oath as Karnataka Chief Minister, New Cabinet Formation Begins

Bengaluru, June 2026 : Karnataka is set to witness a significant political transition as D.K. Shivakumar takes oath as the state’s 24th Chief Minister on Wednesday evening. The swearing-in ceremony will be held at 4:05 p.m. at the Glass House inside Lok Bhavan, where elaborate arrangements have been made to host the high-profile event.

Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot will administer the oath of office and secrecy to Shivakumar and members of his new cabinet. Senior political leaders, government officials, party functionaries and invited guests are expected to attend the ceremony.

According to official sources, Shivakumar is likely to be sworn in along with 11 to 14 ministers, marking the first phase of the new government’s formation. The cabinet is expected to include a mix of experienced leaders and emerging faces, reflecting the party’s effort to balance governance experience with fresh leadership.

The venue for the ceremony was shifted from the grand staircase of the iconic Vidhana Soudha to Lok Bhavan after authorities assessed the logistical challenges associated with a larger gathering and heavy traffic movement in the city centre.

Officials said the Glass House within Lok Bhavan was selected to ensure a smooth and secure event while minimising disruptions to public movement. Extensive security arrangements have been put in place, with additional police personnel deployed across the surrounding areas. Traffic management plans have also been implemented to facilitate the movement of dignitaries and guests attending the ceremony.

Political observers view Shivakumar’s elevation as a major development in Karnataka’s political landscape. Known for his organisational skills and long association with the Congress party, Shivakumar now assumes the responsibility of leading one of India’s most economically significant states.

Party sources indicate that regional representation, social balance and administrative experience will be key factors in the composition of the new cabinet. Young leaders are also expected to find a place in the government as the party seeks to blend continuity with new energy.

The swearing-in ceremony has generated considerable enthusiasm among Congress workers and supporters, many of whom have travelled from different parts of the state to witness the occasion. Celebrations have been planned in several districts to mark Shivakumar’s assumption of office.

The new Chief Minister is expected to focus on governance reforms, infrastructure development, investment promotion and welfare initiatives while steering Karnataka through its next phase of growth.

With the formation of the new government set to begin, attention will now shift to the composition of the cabinet and the policy priorities that will define the Shivakumar administration. The oath-taking ceremony is being viewed as the start of a new chapter in Karnataka politics, with expectations high regarding the government’s development agenda and administrative direction in the years ahead.

Team Maverick