Acharya was one of the most senior leaders of the BJP in Karnataka and as such, played an important role in the growth of the party in the state. He was president of the Dakshina Kannada district unit of the Jana Sangh (1974–77), Janata Party (1977–80) and BJP (1980–83). Also, he played a major role in the formation of the Udupi district in 1998. Known for his honesty, simplicity, dedication, wit and hard work, the soft-spoken Acharya was widely respected in the BJP and across party lines. As a loyal worker of the RSS, he remained committed to the ideology and discipline of the organisation and inspired thousands of BJP workers and leaders.