Chief Minister-designate D. K. Shivakumar called on outgoing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, former chief minister B. S. Yediyurappa, and former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda to personally invite them to his swearing-in ceremony on June 3, a gesture that drew appreciation across political circles in Karnataka.

Mr. Shivakumar first called on Mr. Siddaramaiah at his official residence, ‘Cauvery’, and expressed his gratitude ahead of the swearing-in ceremony scheduled to be held at Glass House in Lok Bhavan, in Bengaluru, at 4.05 p.m.

Later, he met Mr. Yediyurappa at the latter’s residence, and invited him for the ceremony.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mr. Shivakumar said leaders across political parties had contributed to the development of Karnataka.

“They have guided the State, they have worked for the State, and they have contributed to the State. All of us have to work together,” he said.

Setting aside all his differences with the JD(S), the Chief Minister-designate met Mr. Deve Gowda, and invited him to the oath-taking ceremony.

The visits were seen as an attempt by Mr. Shivakumar to reach out across party lines ahead of assuming office, while acknowledging the contributions of senior leaders who have played key roles in Karnataka’s political landscape.