Kishori Lal Sharma Emerges Victorious in Amethi, Ends BJP’s Winning Streak

Kishori Lal Sharma has secured a significant victory in the prestigious constituency of Amethi, bringing an end to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s winning streak. The Uttar Pradesh elections witnessed a close and intense battle, with the INDI Alliance, comprising the Samajwadi Party and Congress, taking a lead in 40 out of 80 seats, as compared to the NDA’s 39 seats.

One of the most notable outcomes of this election came from Amethi, where BJP‘s renowned candidate Smriti Irani faced defeat at the hands of the seasoned Congress leader Kishori Lal Sharma. Initial trends indicated a substantial lead for Sharma, with Irani trailing by nearly 1.3 lakh votes, as per the Election Commission website.

Amethi has historically been a pivotal seat in the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh, and multiple exit polls had anticipated a closely contested race. The constituency was previously viewed as a stronghold of the Congress party, until Irani’s victory over Rahul Gandhi in the 2019 elections dealt a significant blow to the Grand Old Party.

The 63-year-old Kishori Lal Sharma, a trusted aide of the Gandhi family, has long been a key figure in Amethi’s political landscape. With decades of experience in navigating the region’s intricacies and challenges, Sharma’s nomination marked his first foray into electoral politics, culminating in a resounding victory.

A native of Ludhiana, Punjab, Sharma first arrived in Amethi in 1983, where he served as a representative of the Youth Congress under the tutelage of Rajiv Gandhi. Throughout the years, he forged a strong bond with the Gandhi family, particularly with Sonia Gandhi, after Rajiv’s untimely demise in 1991.

Having played a crucial role in orchestrating the Congress’ electoral successes in Rae Bareli and Amethi, KL Sharma‘s quiet effectiveness and astute electoral management endeared him to the party’s leadership. His association with the Gandhi family only grew stronger over the years, as he stood by Sonia during her electoral campaigns in Rae Bareli and Rahul’s tenure in Amethi.

Sharma’s unparalleled loyalty and commitment to the Congress party were duly recognized when he was nominated as the candidate for Amethi in the current elections. His long years of service and intimate knowledge of the region earned him widespread praise, especially from Priyanka Gandhi, who hailed his selection as a homecoming for Amethi.