“Roads Won’t Be Easy,” Says DK Shivakumar Ahead Of Karnataka CM Oath

Karnataka Chief Minister-designate DK Shivakumar has said he will govern with “sincerity” and “dedication” as he prepares to take oath as the state’s new Chief Minister, while acknowledging that the challenges ahead will not be easy. His remarks come on the eve of his swearing-in ceremony, marking a significant political transition in the state following an extended leadership tussle within the Congress party.

Shivakumar, addressing the expectations placed on him, said he felt “obliged” by the trust shown by the people and emphasised the need for sustained hard work to meet governance demands. He noted that the coming period would involve difficult decisions and administrative pressures, but expressed confidence in his ability to manage responsibilities while maintaining public trust.

Highlighting his broader vision, the Chief Minister-designate said he aimed to bring together all sections of society, including farmers, women, and youth, under a unified development agenda. He also spoke of initiating what he described as a “Yuva Yuga” or “new era of youth,” signalling a focus on younger generations and their role in shaping Karnataka’s future. Shivakumar further stressed that Karnataka, and especially Bengaluru, plays a key role in how India is perceived globally.

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Shivakumar is scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday at 4:05 pm at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru, along with a select group of ministers. Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot will administer the oath of office and secrecy at the Glass House venue. The ceremony marks the culmination of months of political negotiations and an internal power struggle within the Congress Legislature Party, which saw Shivakumar elected as its leader on May 30.

The transition follows a prolonged leadership contest between Shivakumar and outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, ending in Shivakumar’s elevation to the state’s top post. At 64, the senior Congress leader and eight-time MLA, popularly known as “DK Shi,” assumes office after years of political ambition and organisational leadership within the party’s Karnataka unit.

Officials have indicated that the oath ceremony will be relatively low-key due to traffic congestion concerns in Bengaluru, as large crowds of party workers and supporters were expected to travel to the city for the event. The state cabinet is expected to have a sanctioned strength of 34 members, including the Chief Minister, as the new government prepares to take charge.

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