Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Thursday strongly endorsed the appointment of senior Congress leader BK Hariprasad as the new president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), describing him as a committed party veteran with a clear ideological foundation. Kharge said the Congress leadership had full confidence in Hariprasad’s ability to steer the organisation during a crucial political phase in the state.
Addressing reporters, Kharge said Hariprasad’s long association with the Congress and his unwavering commitment to the party’s principles made him a natural choice for the responsibility. He added that decisions regarding the distribution of portfolios in the newly formed Karnataka government would be taken by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.
Congress Begins Organisational Transition After Shivakumar’s Elevation
Hariprasad’s appointment comes shortly after DK Shivakumar assumed office as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, prompting his resignation from the post of KPCC president. The Congress high command moved quickly to fill the organisational vacuum by entrusting Hariprasad with the responsibility of leading the state unit.
The decision was formally communicated through an order issued by AICC General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal. Party leaders described the move as part of a broader effort to ensure stability in both the government and the organisation following the leadership transition in Karnataka.
Hariprasad Calls Appointment a Responsibility to Uphold Congress Ideals
Reacting to the appointment, BK Hariprasad expressed gratitude to the Congress leadership, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other senior leaders. He said the decision reflected the party’s commitment to values such as social justice, secularism, constitutional governance and empowerment of weaker sections.
Hariprasad emphasized that the role was not merely an organisational position but a responsibility to strengthen the Congress ideology and connect with people across Karnataka.
Economic Concerns Also Raised
During his interaction with the media, Priyank Kharge also raised concerns about the country’s economic situation. He alleged that the financial condition of the nation was becoming a matter of concern and claimed that people would eventually react if economic pressures continued to mount.
His remarks added a political dimension to the discussion, indicating that the Congress intends to sharpen its criticism of the Centre even as it settles into a new leadership structure in Karnataka.
New Government Takes Shape in Karnataka
The organisational changes come a day after DK Shivakumar took oath as Karnataka Chief Minister in Bengaluru. Senior Congress leader G Parameshwara was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister, while 13 legislators joined the Council of Ministers in the first phase of cabinet formation.
The swearing-in ceremony witnessed the presence of senior Congress leaders and dignitaries from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi both extended their congratulations to Shivakumar, signalling the beginning of a new political chapter in Karnataka under the Congress government.
