Bengaluru

Senior Congress leader D. K. Shivakumar on Saturday indicated that the swearing-in ceremony for Karnataka’s new chief minister could take place on June 3, amid expectations that he will be elected as the new leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP).

When asked by reporters whether the oath-taking ceremony would be held on June 3, Shivakumar briefly replied, “Third, third,” suggesting that the event is likely to be scheduled for that date.

Earlier in the day, Shivakumar left for the crucial CLP meeting in Bengaluru, where Congress legislators were set to choose their new leader following the resignation of outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Visuals from the city showed supporters gathering in large numbers outside Shivakumar’s residence before the meeting. Upon reaching the Vidhana Soudha, he was seen touching the steps of the state legislature building before entering.

Meanwhile, astrologer Aaradhya, who met Shivakumar earlier, told reporters that he had advised the Congress leader to hold the oath-taking ceremony on June 3 at 5:15 pm.

Siddaramaiah stepped down as chief minister on May 28, stating that his resignation was voluntary and in line with the directions of the party high command.

Subsequently, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot accepted Siddaramaiah’s resignation and dissolved the Council of Ministers with immediate effect. However, Siddaramaiah was requested to continue in office until alternative arrangements are put in place.

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The Congress Legislature Party meeting is expected to formally decide the leadership transition and pave the way for the formation of the new government.