Kalvakuntla Kavitha’s press meet has stirred Telangana political circles. The BRS High Command stood firmly with Harish Rao even after Kavitha’s strong allegations. There is no visible pressure on Harish Rao from within the party or its cadre.
Kavitha is not finding support from BRS leaders or workers. Instead, senior leaders of Telangana Jagruthi are revolting against her while openly siding with Harish Rao. No voice has been raised against him during this entire episode, strengthening his image further.
The usual Harish Rao versus KTR debate inside the party has not come up. Not a single leader has criticised Harish Rao to impress KTR. This underlines Harish Rao’s penetration and grip across the BRS ecosystem, surprising many within political circles.
Party insiders believe this shows how Harish Rao set up strong influence not just inside the party but even in allied organisations. Telangana Jagruthi was considered Kavitha’s space for years, yet Rao now seems to hold sway even there.
Perhaps this is why Harish Rao did not bother responding to the allegations. In many ways, he looks better prepared than KTR in matters that directly shape the future of the party and its organisation.
KTR has been more about PR, tweeting, engaging with film celebrities, and ridiculing opponents. This gave him visibility during the BRS government’s rule, but that attention disappeared quickly once the party was out of power.
Meanwhile, Harish Rao has built a strong command over the organisational structure of BRS. In serious Assembly discussions, it is usually Harish Rao who takes charge and drives the debate, showing his importance in day-to-day politics.
If a crisis emerges in BRS as Kavitha claims, Harish Rao seems better prepared than KTR. Political leaders often rally behind those with greater organisational grip, as seen in Andhra Pradesh when Chandrababu Naidu replaced NT Ramarao.
Kavitha’s episode is a mini crisis that already highlights Harish Rao’s strengths. His real influence may only become clear during a full-fledged crisis. Until then, his grip on the BRS ecosystem remains strong and quietly effective.
