Binish Thomas (Special Correspondent)
The appointment of Mr. B. K. Hariprasad as the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President has generated optimism among many Congress workers across the state.
For a large section of grassroots party workers, he represents a leader who has risen through dedication, organizational work, and commitment rather than privilege.
Mr. Hariprasad began his political journey through the Seva Dal and later played an active role in INTUC (Indian National Trade Union Congress).
His long association with the Congress organization has earned him the reputation of being a leader who understands the concerns of ordinary party workers.
Many believe he has remained committed to the party’s ideology, including its secular values, and treats workers with respect regardless of their position or background.
Personally, I have witnessed several occasions where he interacted warmly with party workers. His focus has always appeared to be on strengthening the organization from the grassroots rather than seeking personal recognition.
During his tenure as an AICC General Secretary, he was known among many workers for regularly visiting the party office, meeting people directly, listening to their concerns, and carrying out his organizational responsibilities with discipline.
One quality frequently appreciated by party workers is his accessibility. Unlike many senior politicians who are difficult to reach, many Congress workers say that they can call him directly, and he often answers the phone himself instead of routing calls through personal staff.
Workers also say they can approach him without hesitation, making him one of the more approachable senior leaders in the party.
His humility was also evident when he visited the KPCC office after being appointed President.
Instead of limiting his interaction to senior leaders, he spent time with ordinary party workers, greeted them, and posed for photographs with them. Such gestures, though simple, left a positive impression on many workers.
A recent conversation with someone known to me reflected this sentiment. He had previously left the Congress along with a group of supporters, but after Mr. Hariprasad’s appointment, he expressed a desire to return, believing that the party was now under the leadership of someone who values grassroots workers and organizational unity.
Those who have interacted with him often mention his hospitality. It is said that whenever party workers visit his office, he makes sure they are treated with courtesy—even ensuring they are offered a cup of tea.
While this may seem like a small gesture, many see it as a reflection of his respect for every individual, irrespective of their status.
Another example often cited by party workers is his willingness to promote ordinary people within the organization.
According to supporters, he once recommended a Congress worker employed at a hotel for a municipal councillor ticket.
For many, this demonstrates that Mr. Hariprasad values dedication and commitment over financial influence or social status.
Supporters believe that his primary objective is not personal ambition but strengthening the Congress Party at the grassroots level.
They hope his leadership will energize party workers, improve organizational unity, and build a stronger connection between the leadership and the people.
Whether these expectations are fulfilled will become clear over time, but there is no doubt that many Congress workers see B. K. Hariprasad as an accessible, humble, and organization-oriented leader whose greatest strength lies in his connection with ordinary workers.
