NewsFlash Daily™
03 June 
Historic oath-taking ceremony at Lok Bhavan to witness top Congress leaders, dignitaries and 55 interfaith religious heads
Bengaluru: Karnataka is set to witness a landmark political moment today as D. K. Shivakumar takes oath as the 25th Chief Minister of the state. The swearing-in ceremony will be held at the Glass House in Lok Bhavan, Bengaluru, at 4:05 PM, with Thawar Chand Gehlot administering the oath of office and secrecy.
Final preparations have been completed for the high-profile event, which is expected to draw national political leaders, religious heads, film personalities and hundreds of distinguished guests. Despite the scale of attendance, organisers have stated that the ceremony will be conducted in a disciplined and relatively simple manner.
DK Shivakumar Set to Assume Office as Karnataka Chief Minister
After years of political struggle and organisational leadership within the Congress party, D.K. Shivakumar is poised to officially assume the state's highest executive office.
The swearing-in marks a significant chapter in Karnataka politics, with party workers and supporters celebrating the elevation of one of the state's most influential leaders.
Large banners, cut-outs and welcome displays have appeared across Bengaluru ahead of the ceremony, reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding the political transition.
Congress High Command to Attend Landmark Event
The event is expected to be attended by senior Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Mallikarjun Kharge, Randeep Singh Surjewala and K. C. Venugopal.
Chief Ministers and senior representatives from Congress-ruled states are also expected to participate in the ceremony, underscoring its national political significance.
Vastu-Inspired Stage Prepared for Oath Ceremony
One of the notable features of this year's swearing-in ceremony is the specially designed stage arrangement.
Unlike previous events at Lok Bhavan, where the stage traditionally faced west, organisers have reportedly prepared an east-facing stage following recommendations from astrologers and planners. The venue has been decorated extensively for the occasion, with arrangements overseen by D. K. Suresh and event management teams.
Message of Unity Through Interfaith Participation
The ceremony is also being positioned as a symbol of communal harmony and inclusiveness.
A total of 55 religious leaders representing different faiths have been invited to attend. Among them are prominent seers from major Karnataka mutts, Christian clergy and Muslim religious leaders.
Religious dignitaries expected to be present include representatives from Adichunchanagiri Math, Siddaganga Math, Suttur Math, Art of Living Foundation, along with Archbishop Peter Machado and several Islamic scholars.
New CM Promises Inclusive Governance
Ahead of the swearing-in, D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that his elevation was the result of years of dedication and collective effort by Congress workers.
He expressed gratitude to the Gandhi family and party leadership, stating that the achievement belonged not only to him but also to thousands of party workers who remained committed to democratic values.
The incoming Chief Minister has pledged to focus on farmers, women, youth and all sections of society while promising a new phase of development and governance in Karnataka.
“This is not just my achievement. It is the result of the efforts of thousands of Congress workers who believed in democracy and the party’s ideals,” D.K. Shivakumar said.
Massive Security Arrangements in Place
Authorities have implemented extensive security measures for the event.
Around 1,100 seats have been arranged at the venue for political leaders, celebrities and invited guests. A three-tier pass system has been introduced to streamline entry and crowd management.
Officials have also declared a temporary no-fly zone around key locations, including the Shangri-La Hotel and the KPCC office. To reduce congestion and facilitate security operations, employees at Vidhana Soudha, Vikasa Soudha and MS Building have been granted a half-day holiday.
With thousands expected to witness the ceremony, Bengaluru is preparing for one of the most significant political events in recent Karnataka history.
