The reluctant politician: Will Congress bid final farewell to Amethi with KL Sharma gamble?

The reluctant politician: Will Congress bid final farewell to Amethi with KL Sharma gamble?

Kishori Lal Sharma, or KL as he is called, always dresses in a safari suit with a prominent moustache. The man who would dash in the opposite direction when a mic came close to him is known more as the silent spokesperson of Sonia Gandhi and manager for the Gandhis in UP’s Raebareli and Amethi.

But now, KL will find it tough to walk away after the party he cares for has chosen him to take on Union minister Smriti Irani in the battle for 2024.

Sharma, who is originally from Punjab’s Ludhiana, took over the reins in 1983 but it was after Rajiv Gandhi’s death that he became Sonia Gandhi’s trusted lieutenant, ensuring whatever she wanted was delivered in Amethi and Raebareli. His visits to Delhi and 10, Janpath, were few and only for work. They were also always kept under wraps.

Sharma had caught the eye of Rajiv Gandhi and he came to Raebareli in 1983, staying on since then. He had also joined the Youth Congress. Sonia Gandhi is said to have unflinching faith in KL, who is often described as a tough, no-nonsense man with a grip on party workers.

Soon after his name was announced, the reticent KL spoke to News18. “I abide by the decision of the Gandhis. No, I don’t think I am a weak candidate. I know Amethi more than Smriti Irani does.”

The choice of Sharma is being seen as a walkover for Irani. Two messages seem to have gone out with his selection — One, Rahul Gandhi has run away after a loss in 2019 and second, a seat which the Gandhis have called their home has been given up forever. It’s bound to have a lasting impact on Congress’ UP politics and this is being seen as the final goodbye to Amethi.

One of the planks on which Irani came to power was fighting the entitlement of the Gandhis. The perception gets solidified with the choice of KL. Sharma has been an adviser for the Gandhis, looking after their logistics. While being close to power, he himself has had zero experience in politics. He would always be seen accompanying the Gandhi siblings during their visits to the constituencies. It was tough to get him to even confirm a news. Remaining silent was his USP and hallmark. But now, KL has found his voice. His Master’s Voice.