DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to be new Karnataka CM

The suspense surrounding recent political developments in Karnataka has finally come to an end. In a significant decision aimed at determining the state's leadership, the Congress high command has unanimously chosen KPCC President DK Shivakumar as the leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP). With this, the stage is set for Shivakumar to take charge as Karnataka’s next Chief Minister.

The Congress Legislature Party meeting, held in the conference hall of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Saturday (May 30), was conducted in an orderly manner.

Also read: DK Shivakumar will return to power in 2028 polls, says his astrologer

At the outset, attendance of all MLAs was recorded. CLP Secretary Allam Prabhu Patil formally opened the proceedings with a welcome address. This was followed by speeches from Karnataka Congress in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala and AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal. The key agenda item that followed was the proposal to elect Shivakumar as the leader of the legislature party.

Siddaramaiah moved the resolution proposing Shivakumar’s name, which was seconded by G Parameshwara. All the legislators then expressed their support. With no dissent or opposition, Shivakumar was unanimously elected as the leader of the Congress Legislature Party.

Spiritual strength and preparation

Before heading to the CLP meeting, Shivakumar drew attention by offering special prayers to his revered spiritual guide, Ajjayya. In a room at Vidhana Soudha, he requested everyone to leave and spent some time in solitude praying to his deity, reflecting his deep religious faith.

Earlier, upon arriving at Vidhana Soudha, he paid his respects to the iconic building before proceeding to the meeting venue. As soon as he entered the hall, he walked up to the legislators present and greeted them with handshakes, fostering a sense of confidence and camaraderie.

Among those present at the meeting were Jairam Ramesh, outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, TB Jayachandra, Ramalinga Reddy, CP Yogeshwar, Anekal Shivanna, Pradeep Eshwar, Ashok Pattan, Puttarangashetty and Nayana Motamma, along with most of the party’s MLAs, all of whom expressed their support for the newly elected leader.

Oath-taking ceremony on June 3

It has now been confirmed that Shivakumar will assume office as the Chief Minister of Karnataka on June 3. He is scheduled to take the oath of office at 4:05 pm during a ceremony to be held at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan.

The timing of the ceremony is being regarded as particularly significant, as it falls under the auspicious Vrischika Lagna (Scorpio ascendant).

According to political observers and astrologers, the chosen muhurta is considered highly favourable. It is also being suggested that the timing could provide Shivakumar with a strong political foundation, especially with an eye on the 2028 Assembly elections.

As part of the preparations for the swearing-in ceremony, DPAR Secretary KG Jagadish has inspected the venue at the Glass House. Ministers, dignitaries and thousands of party workers are expected to witness the historic occasion.

Shivakumar’s elevation has infused fresh energy into the Karnataka Congress. There is a growing expectation that the combination of Siddaramaiah’s experience and Shivakumar’s organisational skills will accelerate the state’s development. His cordial interactions with legislators during the meeting conveyed a clear message that he intends to run the administration by carrying everyone along and building consensus.

After a prolonged period of anticipation and political manoeuvring, the reins of Karnataka’s governance are now set to pass into Shivakumar’s hands. The evening of June 3 is expected to mark the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s political history.

(This article was originally published in The Federal Karnataka)