“Dr Acharya’s untimely demise has caused a big void in the BJP, and in my Cabinet. He passed away when the state needed him the most, given the current political situation. It will be difficult for me to become a popular Chief Minister without his guidance.
Dr Acharya was my friend, philosopher and guide. I admired him for his honesty, integrity, and for his immense knowledge and understanding of all subjects. I started my political journey under his tutelage to become a legislator and Member of Parliament.
I always turned to him for advice whenever I was in a state of confusion. We used to meet or talk over the phone every day after I took over as Chief Minister. His contribution to the state unit of BJP has been colossal as he was the architect of all election manifestos from the time the BJP took shape in Karnataka in 1980.
Dr Acharya was instrumental in abolishing manual scavenging practice in Dakshina Kannada district during his tenure as president of Udupi Municipality in 1968-69. Recently, I sought his advice for my maiden budget.
I requested him to rest for ten days on conclusion of the last legislature session, but he said he would rest for a week and return to help me over a fortnight. Only God knows how I will be able to do it (present the budget).
It will be a long while before we come across such a gentleman politician.”
— a tearful CM’s tribute
As told to B. Aravinda Shetty
