Sunil Kanugolu, a well-known poll strategist, has once again showcased his exceptional abilities orchestrating the Congress’ remarkable victory in Telangana, following his success in the party’s return to power in Karnataka. Initially working with Prashant Kishor’s I-PAC, Kanugolu played a crucial role in securing Congress’ win in Karnataka and was later granted Cabinet rank in the Siddaramaiah government.
This time, Kanugolu partnered with PCC chief A Revanth Reddy to devise the Congress’ strategy to unseat the K Chandrashekhar Rao-led BRS government in Telangana. While the party was set for victory in Telangana, it faced significant losses in the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan.
Kanugolu also ventured into Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, under the directive of the party’s central leadership, but faced opposition from regional leaders Ashok Gehlot and Kamal Nath. Despite the challenges, the strategist’s success in Karnataka and Telangana can be attributed to the freedom given to him and his team to work autonomously.
Hailing from Karnataka, Kanugolu made a substantial impact spearheading the Congress’ narrative with the ‘PayCM’ campaign against the BJP in Karnataka. Similarly, in Telangana, he capitalized on alleged corruption under the K Chandrashekhar Rao administration, resonating with the electorate. Notably, Kanugolu has also been involved in BJP’s poll campaigns, including the party’s victories in Karnataka as the single largest party and in the 2014 elections led Narendra Modi.
Having worked with various political parties, Kanugolu joined the Congress last year and is credited with strategizing Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra.’ As a key figure in securing Karnataka and Telangana for the Congress, it’s likely that Kanugolu will be entrusted with more responsibilities in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.