Congress’ astounding victory in Karnataka has been attributed to many big names, such as DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah, and Rahul Gandhi. However, a key figure who deliberately shunned the limelight yet played a significant role in this accomplishment is Sunil Kanugolu, the shrewd poll strategist.
Hired by the Congress in March 2023, Kanugolu was entrusted with creating a successful strategy for the party in Karnataka. His efforts have now been rewarded with an even greater responsibility – to secure a win for Congress in Madhya Pradesh. The party, despite its victory in the 2018 assembly elections, lost power in 2020 due to internal strife.
Kanugolu, known as the ‘man of ideas’, is originally from Chennai but currently resides in Bengaluru. His impressive track record includes working with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on BJP’s campaigns and playing a key role in Yogi Adityanath’s commanding victory in Uttar Pradesh in 2017. His political acumen is also reflected in his successful stints with DMK and AIADMK.
Kanugolu’s work with the Congress includes supporting the Bharat Jodo Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi. In the upcoming Madhya Pradesh election, his role will be pivotal in crafting the party’s campaign. Insiders attribute his success to his ability to build personal relationships with prominent party leaders and his data-driven approach to strategy.
In Karnataka, Kanugolu implemented a seat-by-seat strategy that successfully isolated the BJP and JD(S), preventing a three-way competition. His strategic moves, such as the ‘cryPM’ campaign and other Congress campaigns against the BJP, demonstrate his ability to effectively use facts and data to counter opposition charges.
This article is based on a report by timesnownews.com.
