DK Shivakumar will take oath as Karnataka’s chief minister today, 3 June, at 4 PM in Lok Bhavan. Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot will administer the oath.
Siddaramaiah resigned following Congress high command directives, clearing the path for Shivakumar’s appointment. He formally became Congress legislative leader on Saturday.
Potential Ministers and Cabinet Composition
Sources indicate 10 to 12 legislators may take oath alongside Shivakumar. The cabinet expansion will likely follow upcoming Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections.
On 2 June, Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah traveled to Delhi for detailed discussions with party leadership about ministerial appointments.
They met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, then separately consulted General Secretary KC Venugopal and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Surjewala.
Likely Ministers Taking Oath
Sources suggest possible ministers include G. Parameshwar, Priyank Kharge, Ramalinga Reddy, MB Patil, and Yatindra Siddaramaiah.
Karnataka’s cabinet, including the CM, may comprise up to 34 ministers, balancing seniority, regional representation, and Siddaramaiah loyalists.
Cabinet Balance and Strategic Appointments
The party aims to blend experienced leaders with new faces. Several deputy chief ministers may be appointed, while some previous ministers could be excluded. Shivakumar faces challenges managing aspirants, as limited positions may create dissatisfaction and unrest among leaders excluded from the cabinet.
He must proceed cautiously to maintain stability while ensuring competent leadership and regional as well as caste representation.
The swearing-in marks a pivotal moment for Karnataka politics. Shivakumar’s decisions will determine Congress’s governance strength, cabinet cohesion, and party unity
