Priyank Kharge carries the burden of legacy. His father, union minister Mallikarjun Kharge, has never tasted defeat in his political career and still towers over many politicians of north Karnataka.
As a young leader from the Hyderabad-Karnatak region, Priyank has the responsibility of preventing the Reddys from spreading their influence north of Bellary.
Speaking to DNA, he detailed his programmes and impressions about the padayatra to Bellary.
Five days into the padayatra, what are the images that move you?
People are seeing so many Congress leaders in flesh. Many of us would have never come to these areas but for the padyatra. We are as excited as the public. I felt pride when our seniors carried the party and national flags and marched. It was very inspiring.
What are your expectations from the padayatra?
No expectations. We are focussed and there is a purpose behind the padayatra. There are issues about governance, misuse of administration and goondagiri that needs to be dealt with. The fight is against ‘legalised’ corruption.
What made Congress think of a padayatra?
We were challenged into taking it out and they (BJP) pushed us against a wall since they didn’t allow any debate on the issue. This is our Gandhigiri against their goondagiri. This evokes the old tradition of the Congress party.
How will you tackle the Reddys’ influence in north Karnataka?
Development of the region is the only answer. We have asked Rahul Gandhi to take up the case of granting special status to the Hyderabad-Karnatak region. The youth of the region need to be gainfully employed. In Bellary, the young have become disoriented.
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