About 40 years ago, in 1983, Kishori Lal Sharma arrived in Amethi, selected under a program by Rajiv Gandhi to oversee development work in his constituency. In his 20s, Sharma was appointed the in-charge of Tiloi Assembly constituency under the Amethi Lok Sabha seat. Fast forward to 2024, the Gandhi loyalist is contesting his debut election from Amethi and is poised for victory, leading over current BJP MP Smriti Irani by more than 1 lakh votes as of 3 pm.
Following Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination in 1991, Sharma continued to work for the Congress party in the constituency. According to reports, his efforts were instrumental in Sonia Gandhi’s first electoral victory in 1999, which also marked her entry into Parliament through Amethi.
“I have served the region for 40 years and know Amethi very well. I came here in 1983 as a Youth Congress representative to work for Rajiv ji and have remained here since then. Except 1981, I managed all of Rajiv ji’s remaining elections,” he told IE in an interview, reflecting on his long association with the grand old party.
When Sonia Gandhi shifted her focus to Rae Bareli in 2004 and Rahul Gandhi entered politics from Amethi, Sharma expanded his portfolio by managing both constituencies. He played a crucial role as a backroom strategist in Amethi and Rae Bareli during the 2004 and 2009 elections, ensuring victories for both Rahul and Sonia, respectively.
Sharma’s significance within the Congress party came under the spotlight when Priyanka Gandhi led his roadshow, accompanied by former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. “Our family has a long-standing relationship with Kishori Lal Sharma-ji. He has always been engaged wholeheartedly in serving the people of Amethi and Raebareli. His passion for public service is an example in itself,” Priyanka Gandhi remarked.