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Nothing wrong if Kharge wants to come back to Karnataka politics: Parameshwara

Parameshwara Endorses Kharge's Possible Return to Karnataka Politics Amid Speculations

In a significant development within the Congress party's internal dynamics, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has publicly stated that there would be "nothing wrong" if All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge decides to re-enter the fray of state politics. This remark comes at a time when the political landscape in Karnataka is buzzing with rumors of potential leadership shifts, particularly in the wake of the party's recent electoral performances and ongoing internal deliberations. Parameshwara's comments, made during a recent interaction with the media, underscore the fluid nature of alliances and ambitions within the grand old party, especially in a state where Congress has managed to regain power after a period of opposition.

Mallikarjun Kharge, a veteran politician hailing from Karnataka's Kalaburagi district (formerly Gulbarga), has been a towering figure in Indian politics for decades. His journey from a local leader to the national president of the Congress party is marked by resilience and strategic acumen. Kharge, who served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and held multiple ministerial portfolios in both state and central governments, faced a rare electoral setback in the 2019 general elections when he lost his long-held Gulbarga seat to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Undeterred, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 2020 and ascended to the presidency of the Congress in 2022, becoming the first non-Gandhi family member to hold the position in over two decades. His leadership has been pivotal in navigating the party through turbulent times, including coalition-building efforts and opposition to the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the center.

Parameshwara's endorsement of Kharge's potential return is not just a casual observation but carries weight given his own stature in Karnataka politics. As a former Deputy Chief Minister and a key Dalit leader in the state, Parameshwara has been instrumental in shaping the Congress's strategies in Karnataka. He emphasized that Kharge, despite his national responsibilities, remains deeply rooted in Karnataka's political soil. "If he wants to come back, there's nothing wrong with it," Parameshwara was quoted as saying, highlighting Kharge's extensive experience and the respect he commands among party workers and leaders alike. This statement could be interpreted as a subtle nod to the ongoing discussions about strengthening the party's base in the state, especially after the Congress's victory in the 2023 assembly elections under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The context of these remarks is crucial. Karnataka has been a battleground state for major political parties, with the Congress making a comeback in 2023 by defeating the BJP-led government. The win was attributed to a combination of anti-incumbency, effective campaigning on local issues like corruption and unemployment, and the consolidation of votes from various communities, including Dalits, OBCs, and minorities—groups where leaders like Kharge and Parameshwara hold significant sway. However, post-victory, the party has faced internal challenges, including factionalism and debates over power-sharing. Speculations about Kharge's return have been fueled by reports suggesting that he might be eyeing a more active role in state affairs, possibly even contesting in upcoming elections or influencing key decisions.

Analysts point out that Kharge's return could serve multiple purposes. Firstly, it would bolster the Congress's image as a party committed to its regional strongholds. Kharge's influence in north Karnataka, particularly in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region, could help counter the BJP's aggressive outreach in those areas. The BJP has been attempting to make inroads by promoting local leaders and focusing on development projects, but Kharge's grassroots connect—built over years of service as a nine-time MLA and multiple-term MP—remains unmatched. Secondly, at a national level, Kharge's dual engagement could strengthen the opposition's narrative against the Modi government, especially in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. His experience in parliamentary affairs and ability to forge alliances, as seen in the formation of the INDIA bloc, would be invaluable.

Parameshwara, in his comments, also touched upon the broader implications for the party's unity. He dismissed any notions of rivalry, stating that the Congress in Karnataka operates as a cohesive unit under the high command's guidance. This is particularly relevant amid whispers of discontent among some leaders regarding the current leadership setup. For instance, there have been murmurs about potential changes in the chief ministerial position, with names like Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also floating in discussions. Parameshwara's stance appears to align with a strategy of inclusivity, ensuring that senior leaders like Kharge are not sidelined but rather integrated into the state machinery if they so desire.

Delving deeper into Kharge's political legacy, it's worth noting his contributions to Karnataka's development. During his tenure as a state minister, he oversaw portfolios like home, infrastructure, and rural development, implementing policies that addressed irrigation, education, and social welfare in backward regions. His advocacy for Dalit rights and empowerment has made him a symbol of social justice within the Congress fold. Parameshwara, himself a prominent Dalit face, shares this ethos, and his support for Kharge could be seen as an effort to consolidate the party's appeal among marginalized communities, which form a crucial vote bank in Karnataka.

The timing of these statements is intriguing. With the Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the Congress is keen on maximizing its gains in southern states like Karnataka, where it already holds power. Kharge's potential involvement could energize the cadre and provide a counter-narrative to the BJP's Hindutva-driven politics. Moreover, internal surveys and feedback from party workers suggest a desire for experienced hands to guide the state unit through potential challenges, such as economic slowdowns or coalition pressures.

Critics, however, argue that Kharge's return might complicate matters. As AICC president, his primary focus should remain on national issues, and diving back into state politics could dilute his effectiveness at the center. There's also the risk of exacerbating factional fights, with different groups vying for influence. Yet, Parameshwara's positive outlook seems to downplay these concerns, portraying Kharge's possible move as a natural progression rather than a disruption.

In the larger scheme of Indian politics, this development reflects the Congress party's ongoing efforts to reinvent itself. Under Kharge's leadership, the party has shown signs of revival, from winning key state elections to challenging the BJP in parliamentary debates. His roots in Karnataka add a layer of authenticity to his national persona, making him a bridge between regional aspirations and pan-India goals.

As the political discourse evolves, all eyes will be on Kharge's next steps. Will he heed the call of his home state, or continue to steer the national ship? Parameshwara's endorsement certainly opens the door wider, signaling that the Congress is open to leveraging its veterans for sustained success. This narrative not only highlights individual ambitions but also the intricate web of loyalties and strategies that define party politics in India.

Expanding on the socio-political fabric of Karnataka, it's essential to understand how leaders like Kharge and Parameshwara fit into the state's diverse demographic mosaic. Karnataka's politics is often divided along linguistic, caste, and regional lines. The Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities dominate in the south and central parts, while north Karnataka, with its significant Dalit and Muslim populations, relies on leaders who champion inclusive growth. Kharge, a Scheduled Caste leader from the Bhovi community, has been a steadfast voice for these groups, pushing for reservations, land reforms, and economic upliftment.

Parameshwara's comments also come against the backdrop of recent controversies in Karnataka, including the handling of law and order issues and allegations of corruption in the previous BJP regime. As Home Minister, Parameshwara has been at the forefront of addressing these, and aligning with Kharge could enhance his own position within the party. Their shared history—both having risen through the ranks during the era of leaders like S.M. Krishna and Dharam Singh—fosters a sense of camaraderie that could stabilize the state unit.

Furthermore, the national implications cannot be ignored. Kharge's presidency has been marked by efforts to unite opposition parties, and a stronger foothold in Karnataka would provide the Congress with a model state to showcase its governance. Successes in schemes like the Gruha Jyothi (free electricity) and Anna Bhagya (food security) under Siddaramaiah could be amplified with Kharge's involvement, serving as a blueprint for other states.

In conclusion, Parameshwara's statement is more than a mere endorsement; it's a reflection of the dynamic interplay between state and national politics in India. As speculations continue, the Congress party's ability to harness its leaders' strengths will be key to its future trajectory. Whether Kharge returns to Karnataka or not, his legacy as a unifier and fighter remains intact, inspiring a new generation of politicians.

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Read the Full ThePrint Article at:
[ https://theprint.in/india/nothing-wrong-if-kharge-wants-to-come-back-to-karnataka-politics-parameshwara/2705976/ ]