Harish Rao has long been tagged as the “Trouble Shooter” of BRS, ever since the party’s inception (formerly TRS). Whenever KCR faced crisis within the party, Harish’s leadership skills effectively resolved the turmoil, revitalizing the party. His strategic acumen was also evident in Revanth Reddy’s defeat in Kodangal during the 2018 elections. However, after returning to power for the second term, KCR began sidelining Harish. He was initially excluded from the Cabinet, and even KTR was kept away briefly to avoid backlash. Later, KTR was appointed as the party’s Working President, and both were eventually inducted into the Cabinet. But Harish’s influence was systematically diluted, reducing his prominence in the party.
Harish was confined to Siddipet and Hyderabad, barred from campaigning elsewhere, and subjected to intense pressure. Known for his patience, Harish endured this silently. By the time of BRS’s Silver Jubilee celebrations, tensions peaked. KCR and KTR openly undermined Harish’s role. Initially announced as the in-charge for the Warangal public meeting, the venue was abruptly shifted to Medchal, where KTR took center stage, sidelining Harish. Later, the event was moved back to Warangal, but Harish’s presence was erased, with the stage dominated by KCR and KTR. By April 27, the Silver Jubilee event felt more like a platform to hand over party responsibilities to KTR.
Harish’s loyalists, who shared struggles with him, grew anxious about his future. Many who saw him as a future CM began exploring alternatives. Speculations arose… some suggested he join BJP, others urged him to start his own party. Yet, Harish remained silent, weathering the storm with his trademark patience.
Meanwhile, a new crisis emerged with KCR’s daughter, MLC Kavitha Kalvakuntla. Her remarks—indirectly criticizing KCR’s governance, questioning per capita income during KCR regime and hinting at “unfinished social justice goals” “By stating, ‘It remains unfulfilled even now…’, Kavitha has indirectly levied criticism squarely at KCR.” However, KTR has been boasting that the per capita income growth was robust during KCR’s tenure. This sparked fresh debates. Rumors swirled about her writing a letter expressing dissent and even floating a new party. These developments deepened suspicions of internal strife in BRS.
In a dramatic turn, Harish re-emerged as the “Trouble Shooter.” KTR personally visited Harish’s home twice for discussions, signaling a truce. This move, amid the Kavitha controversy, underscored Harish’s indispensability. Party circles buzzed with the phrase, *”What a change in such a short time!”*
Conclusion: BRS politics remains incomplete without Harish Rao. His resurgence proves that despite attempts to sideline him, his role as the crisis manager is irreplaceable. The recent twists highlight one truth: Harish’s absence reduces BRS’s political heft to zero.
