New Delhi, June 3: Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar will be sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Karnataka today at 4:05 p.m. in a grand ceremony at the Glass House, Lok Bhavan. Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot will administer the oath of office and secrecy to Shivakumar and his cabinet colleagues.

The event is expected to be a show of strength for the Congress, with senior leaders including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, K.C. Venugopal, and Randeep Singh Surjewala in attendance. Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers, and Pradesh Congress Committee presidents from across the country will also join the ceremony, alongside Members of Parliament and senior party leaders.

In a notable move, the guest list reflects inclusivity, with invitations extended to religious leaders, students from government schools, daily wage workers, civic staff, farmer representatives, Dalit and Backward Class leaders, women’s self-help groups, and youth leaders. Prominent figures from the media, judiciary, film industry, sports, theatre, literature, and business have also been invited, underlining the new government’s commitment to engaging diverse sections of society.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Shivakumar described his elevation as a “victory for Congress workers” and pledged to usher in a “new era for youth” in Karnataka. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized his determination to work with sincerity and dedication. “The party has allowed a worker, not a leader. I am deeply obliged by the faith and confidence reposed in me,” he said.

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Reflecting on his political journey, Shivakumar noted that his rise was the result of perseverance and hard work. “Though it was delayed, it was not denied. This is not about Shivakumar alone; it is about every Congress worker who stood by the party and believed in its democratic traditions,” he remarked.

With Bengaluru often seen as India’s global face, Shivakumar stressed the importance of taking every section of society along. His government, he promised, will prioritize farmers, women, and youth, aiming to build an inclusive and progressive Karnataka.