Karnataka Enters a New Era of Youth Leadership, Says Chief Minister-Designate D.K. Shivakumar

“The people of Karnataka have reposed faith in me. I will take along every section of society, including farmers, women and the younger generation. A new youth era will begin in Karnataka,” he said.

Shivakumar described his political journey not as a dream fulfilled, but as the result of dedication, perseverance and years of hard work.

“I do not call this a dream. I call it hard work and commitment. These are difficult times. There may have been delays, but there has been no denial. This is not about D.K. Shivakumar alone. It is the result of the efforts of thousands of Congress workers who have faith in democracy and the history of the Congress party,” he said.

Highlighting his long association with the Congress leadership, Shivakumar said the Gandhi family had consistently trusted him with responsibilities and opportunities throughout his political career.

“The Gandhi family placed its faith in me and gave me opportunities at different stages. From Rajiv Gandhi’s time until today, I have remained loyal to the family and the party,” he said.

Praising the contributions of the Nehru-Gandhi family, Shivakumar said several members of the family had sacrificed positions of power for the larger interests of the nation.

“Sonia Gandhi could have become Prime Minister, but she chose not to. Rahul Gandhi too had opportunities, but instead he chose to fight for the country. Through the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi travelled across the nation and connected with people directly. Few leaders have undertaken such a difficult and significant exercise,” he said.

Recalling his personal admiration for former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Shivakumar said he had named one of his cinema theatres after her following her assassination.

“After the death of Indira Gandhi, I named my theatre ‘Indira Gandhi Chitra Mandir’. That reflects my commitment and respect towards the Gandhi family,” he said.

The Chief Minister-designate said he remains deeply committed to the trust reposed in him by the party leadership and the people of Karnataka.

“I am fully committed to the faith and confidence placed in me. I will work tirelessly to meet the expectations of the people. The road ahead is not easy, but it must be navigated with honesty, dedication and responsibility,” he said.

Shivakumar also stressed Karnataka’s importance on the national and global stage, noting that Bengaluru serves as a gateway through which much of the world views India.

“The world looks at India through Bengaluru and Karnataka. Karnataka is a beautiful and progressive state. Wherever I go, people tell me Karnataka is among the most important states in the country. That increases the responsibility on my shoulders,” he added.

The remarks come shortly before Shivakumar is scheduled to take oath as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, marking a significant political transition in the state and the beginning of a new chapter in the Congress-led government.