Bengaluru: In a fiery address at the Backward Communities conclave in the city on Saturday, Congress leader BK Hariprasad passionately critiqued leadership, without explicitly naming Chief Minister Siddaramiah. Hariprasad, known for his outspoken views, raised thought-provoking questions about the authenticity of political personas. He remarked, “Wearing a Hublot wristwatch and donning a Khadi dhoti may project the image of a socialist, but true socialism transcends mere appearances. It’s about embracing all sections of society rather than being bound by casteist and right-wing affiliations behind closed doors.”
Hariprasad, the keynote speaker, elaborated on the distinction between a casteist and a secular leader. He argued that a casteist leader primarily caters to their own caste’s interests, often neglecting the needs of others. He implied that such tendencies are evident in the current administration. In contrast, he highlighted leaders who championed the cause of inclusivity, mentioning notable figures such as Kagodu Thimappa, Devaraj Urs, and S. Bangarappa.
Addressing speculations about his motives, Hariprasad clarified, “I am not raising these concerns due to personal ambitions or grievances about not securing a ministerial position. Instead, I believe several capable individuals, including representatives from Billava, Eediga, and Namadhari communities, could have served as deputy chief ministers. Furthermore, minority leaders could also have been considered for this role.”
Highlighting the vulnerability of backward communities, Hariprasad emphasised that their support played a pivotal role in bringing the government to power. However, he expressed disappointment that their contributions often went unacknowledged once the government was established. He urged leaders to prioritize the welfare of the communities they represent.