Former Karnataka minister D Sudhakar's son has become increasingly politically active ahead of the upcoming bypoll in Hiriyur, according to party sources. The bypoll was necessitated following Sudhakar's recent conviction and disqualification from the assembly.
Family steps into political vacuum
While party leaders believe that Sudhakar's wife, Harshini, could attract sympathy votes from the constituency, she has reportedly expressed reluctance to contest the bypoll. Insiders suggest that the family is weighing options to maintain its political presence in the region.
Sudhakar, a prominent Congress leader, was disqualified after a court verdict in a corruption case. The bypoll is seen as a crucial test for the party in the Chitradurga district, where Sudhakar had a stronghold.
Son emerges as potential candidate
The former minister's son has been attending public meetings and engaging with local party workers, signaling a possible entry into electoral politics. According to a senior Congress leader who spoke on condition of anonymity, "The family is keen to retain the seat, and the son's active involvement is being seen as a preparation for a future candidacy."
However, the final decision on the candidate is expected to be taken by the party high command after consultations with local leaders. The bypoll date has not been announced yet, but political activities have intensified in the constituency.
Sympathy factor and electoral dynamics
Political analysts point out that Harshini could benefit from a sympathy wave, given Sudhakar's sudden exit from office. "A woman candidate from the family could consolidate the traditional Congress vote bank while attracting sympathy votes," said a political observer based in Bengaluru. "But her reluctance suggests that the family might be grooming the son for a longer political career."
The Hiriyur seat has been a Congress bastion for over a decade, but the BJP and JD(S) are expected to put up a tough fight. The bypoll is also being watched as a precursor to the 2028 assembly elections.
