Rising in the Ranks: Could BK Hariprasad Be Karnataka’s Next Home Minister?

As political equations continue to shift within Karnataka's ruling Congress government and a cabinet reshuffle appears to be on the cards in near future, one seasoned leader seems poised for elevation — BK Hariprasad, a party stalwart known for his sharp political instincts, organisational clout, and enduring presence in Karnataka’s political landscape."

The whispers in the corridors of Vidhana Soudha are growing louder: Could he be the next Home Minister of Karnataka?

The Stature of a Stalwart

BK Hariprasad’s journey in politics is nothing short of a classic Congress tale. Hailing from a humble background in Bengaluru, Hariprasad has steadily risen through the party ranks — from being an NSUI activist to holding key positions in the All India Congress Committee (AICC). 

A former Rajya Sabha MP, he has been known for his grounded connect with grassroots workers and his ability to navigate the power circles of Delhi and Karnataka with equal finesse.

Uneasy Camaraderie with Siddaramaiah

However, his relationship with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has often been marked by tension. The CM visiting Hariprasad recently, is said to have larger politically significance, with developments in the party.

Their ideological divergences and contrasting political styles have, in past, led to several high-profile flashpoints, particularly during cabinet reshuffles and key policy announcements. 

In 2023, Hariprasad made headlines with a thinly-veiled jibe at Siddaramaiah over cabinet portfolio allocations, accusing the CM's camp of "ignoring seasoned leaders in favour of loyalists."

This wasn’t the first instance. Hariprasad and Siddaramaiah taking different stances on governance style, political messaging, and internal democracy is not a less known thing, with Hariprasad positioning himself as a voice for the sidelined senior leadership.

DKS Factor

Interestingly, insiders say, Hariprasad has found a closer ally in Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. 

The two share not just a personal rapport but a strategic political understanding. Shivakumar, seen as the party's troubleshooter and mass mobiliser, has often relied on Hariprasad’s counsel, especially in dealing with voter base and caste dynamics. 

With DK Shivakumar eyeing the top post in future, many believe a potential elevation of Hariprasad to the Home Ministry could be part of a larger balancing act within the Congress power structure.

Parameshwara to remain at helm?

Meanwhile, the current Home Minister, Dr. G Parameshwara, is reportedly facing mounting challenges internally and externally. 

Dr. G. Parameshwara, whose political journey began at the grassroots, evolving from a local leader to a prominent dalit face in Karnataka politics, could be considered for a major responsibility, sources say. 

His stint with various key roles — including KPCC President, Deputy Chief Minister, and multiple-time MLA, could make the party bank on him for a major party leadership responsibilty in future. 

There has been a growing call within the party for the ‘one person, one responsibility’ principle. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar currently holds both the posts of DCM and State Congress President — a dual role that hasn’t gone down well with a section of the party.

As home minister, Dr.Parameshwara has been focusing on modernising police infrastructure, addressing communal tensions, and promoting social justice in law enforcement.

Parameshwara is also known for advocating greater representation for backward communities in administration and governance.

Despite recent challenges, his stature as a grounded, intellectual, and community-rooted leader remains significant in Karnataka’s Congress landscape.

Though there has been a shift in camps to Parameshwara in the past decade, known for his stature and class, he may be asked to take up a major responsibility, sources say. 

A Homecoming for Hariprasad?

In this backdrop, many in the Congress believe that BK Hariprasad’s vast experience, urban credentials, and organisational acumen make him a strong contender for the Home portfolio. 

With party organisation a key area being addressed by the party high command, and tightening its grip on urban Karnataka and law-and-order narratives on cards, a reshuffle could serve both governance and political optics. 

"Hariprasad has the stature and the skill to manage the complexities of the Home Ministry — from handling policing issues to being the government’s face on matters of security and administration," said a senior Congress functionary.

While political denials are expected, the speculation has already triggered interest in political circles. 

Whether the Congress high command will take the bold step remains to be seen — but for now, it is said, BK Hariprasad’s name is firmly in the frame in the next cabinet rejig.