Bengaluru, June 3 (IANS) Newly sworn-in Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday said that the Chief Minister’s chair belongs to the people and that he would dedicate the authority entrusted to him for public service.

Addressing a press conference at Vidhana Soudha after formally assuming office and chairing his first Cabinet meeting, Shivakumar said he had accepted the responsibility with a commitment to serving the people of Karnataka, setting aside personal considerations.

“The Chief Minister’s chair does not belong to D.K. Shivakumar. It is the people’s chair. The authority given by the people will be dedicated to their service,” he said.

Stating that he believes one cannot move forward without remembering past steps, Shivakumar said it is important not to forget one’s roots. Describing the day as a new beginning, he said both the Congress party and the people of Karnataka had given him a fresh opportunity to serve.

“In the remaining two years, I will explore every possible avenue to serve the people and work for the welfare of the state,” he said.

Referring to months of speculation over leadership change and transfer of power, Shivakumar said the Congress high command had now put all uncertainties to rest.

“The media had been carrying numerous reports and statements about leadership change and power transfer. I had repeatedly asked everyone to be patient and wait for the right moment. Today, at the auspicious hour of 4.15 p.m., the media and the people of the state have witnessed that moment,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the trust reposed in him by the people, Shivakumar said public life inevitably attracts both criticism and praise, but it is work that ultimately endures.

“I have always believed that criticism dies, but work remains. With my 40 years of political experience, I will strive to bring new energy and direction to the administration of the state,” he said.

Recalling his political journey since 1985, Shivakumar said he had experienced both hardships and successes. He noted that he had held positions of power at a young age, faced political challenges, and even endured imprisonment in Tihar Jail, but had never lost courage.

“I have always lived with hope and faith. Once again, I have been given an opportunity to serve the people and leave behind a meaningful legacy,” he added.

Shivakumar thanked Congress leaders and workers for their support and acknowledged the party leadership’s role in the transition.

He said the decision had been taken under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge, with the support of Sonia Gandhi and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.

He also praised former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for honouring his commitment to abide by the party high command’s decision.

“When the high command called both of us and conveyed its decision, Siddaramaiah made way for me with great happiness. All leaders of the party have stood united and entrusted me with this responsibility,” he said.

Shivakumar said he was fully aware of the challenges faced by both rural and urban populations. Pointing out that nearly 42 per cent of Karnataka’s population lives in urban areas, he said many people migrate from villages to cities in search of employment and better educational opportunities for their children.

He emphasised that government decisions would be collective decisions rather than those of any individual.

“I do not believe in caste or religion as factors in governance. I may have my personal beliefs, but above all, I believe in humanity,” he said.

Recalling that he had contested a school election when he was in the seventh standard, Shivakumar said he has always believed in democratic values.

He added that the new Cabinet reflects Karnataka’s spirit of harmony among all communities and urged the media to continue scrutinising the government’s work constructively.

“You are free to criticise us and point out our mistakes. But avoid baseless political speculation. People see what your cameras show them. Report according to your conscience,” he said.

–IANS

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