K M Shivalinge Gowda

K. M. Shivalinge Gowda was born on 14 February 1958 in Hassan district, Karnataka. He belongs to an agrarian background and has long been associated with grassroots political and social activities in the Arsikere region. Before entering state-level politics, he built his public profile through involvement in local governance and community development initiatives.

His formal political journey gained momentum when he was elected as a Member of the Hassan Zilla Panchayat from 2001 to 2006. During this period, he worked on rural infrastructure, drinking water projects, and local development schemes, which strengthened his political network in the district and positioned him as a prominent regional leader.

In 2008, he entered the Karnataka Legislative Assembly after winning from the Arsikere constituency as a candidate of the Janata Dal (Secular). He consolidated his hold over the constituency by securing re-election in 2013 and again in 2018. Across these three consecutive terms as a JD(S) MLA, he focused on constituency development, irrigation projects, road connectivity, and farmer-related issues, which are central concerns in Hassan district.

Ahead of the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, Shivalinge Gowda resigned from JD(S), citing political differences, and joined the Indian National Congress. His move marked a significant shift in Hassan district politics. Contesting from Arsikere on a Congress ticket, he won the 2023 Assembly election, thereby becoming a four-time MLA.

In January 2024, the Karnataka government appointed him as Chairman of the Karnataka Housing Board, entrusting him with responsibilities related to housing schemes and infrastructure planning.

As of 2026, he continues to serve as the MLA from Arsikere and remains active in state-level political affairs.