Former Mysuru-Kodagu MP Prathap Simha recently questioned the prevalence of dynastic politics in Karnataka, asking, “If political leaders worry only about their own children, who will take care of the children of other people, who also work for the party?” Simha’s remarks were made during a book release event at FKCCI Auditorium in Bengaluru, organized by Sri Vagdevi Vidyavardhaka Trust, Vishwavani Books, and Parishrama NEET Academy.
Simha contrasted the legacy of former Chief Minister D. Devaraj Urs, known for nurturing others’ children, with current leaders primarily focused on advancing their own children’s careers. He criticized leaders like Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, former CM B.S. Yediyurappa, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy for prioritizing their children over others who have contributed to their parties.
Highlighting the grassroots origins of leaders like Siddaramaiah, H.D. Deve Gowda, Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, and Yediyurappa, Simha lamented that these leaders have forgotten about others from similar backgrounds. He pointed out that the issue spans all political parties, with children of influential politicians frequently receiving election tickets.
Simha also noted similar trends in other sectors, such as the film industry, literature, and sports, where achievers’ children often fail to match their parents’ success. He urged journalists to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of journalism in bringing truth to the public.
Simha concluded by acknowledging calls for him to resume writing and expressed his intention to scrutinize the BJP if he did. The event also saw the release of nine books, attended by notable figures like Dr. Gururaj Karajagi, Vishweshwar Bhat, and others.