D. K. Shivakumar Oath on June 3, Two Deputy CMs From Dalit and Minority Communities

D.K. Shivakumar is likely to be sworn in as the next Chief Minister of Karnataka on June 3, with multiple political and logistical factors reportedly influencing the choice of date. According to sources, a Congress delegation led by Shivakumar is expected to meet Thawarchand Gehlot to discuss the formalities of the oath-taking ceremony and government formation.

Sources indicated that the swearing-in ceremony will be a relatively simple affair rather than a large-scale political event. Speculation over the date has continued since the resignation of outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday, bringing an end to months of uncertainty over the leadership transition within the ruling Congress party.

One of the key reasons behind selecting June 3 is said to be Shivakumar’s belief in astrology and auspicious timings. Sources claimed that the Congress leader consulted astrologer Bellur Dwarakanath, who identified June 3 as a favorable “shubh muhurat” for assuming office. The date is also believed to align with the availability of Rahul Gandhi, who is expected to attend the ceremony.

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The new administration is likely to include two deputy chief ministers alongside Shivakumar. According to sources, one deputy chief minister may be chosen from the Dalit community and another from a minority community as part of the Congress party’s effort to maintain social and political balance within the state government.

The party is also expected to carefully distribute cabinet positions among various caste groups, communities, and factions within the Karnataka Congress. Sources suggested that Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of Siddaramaiah, could be entrusted with a significant role in the new government, reflecting efforts to accommodate leaders associated with the outgoing chief minister’s camp.

The leadership transition follows a prolonged power-sharing dispute between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. Congress leadership ultimately backed Shivakumar for the top post, paving the way for the change in government. Sources further indicated that Rahul Gandhi has advocated greater representation for Dalits, Other Backward Classes, minorities, and younger leaders in the new cabinet, a move aimed at strengthening the party’s social justice agenda and broadening its appeal ahead of the 2028 Karnataka Assembly elections.

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