Acharya Pramod Krishnam, recently expelled from the Congress, rose to prominence primarily due to the party’s support. Advocating for Congress for over three decades, Krishnam didn’t become the BJP’s favourite overnight.
By having Acharya Pramod Krishnam, claiming proximity to Priyanka Gandhi, alongside him at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Kalki Dham temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi not only signalled the beginning of election activities in western Uttar Pradesh but also conveyed multiple messages.
Krishnam, promoted as a Hindu face, was strategically positioned, triggering polarisation in Sambhal, another Muslim-dominated area. Prime Minister Modi, by emphasizing Ram and Krishna in his speech, also set the election agenda for Uttar Pradesh.
Surprisingly, it was the Congress itself that provided this opportunity to the Prime Minister.
Despite Krishnam’s continuous attacks against the Congress and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over the past year and a half, the party silently observed the situation. A prompt and decisive action by the party early on could have preempted the opposition’s chance to exploit the situation. The party only expelled Krishnam after he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, creating a predicament for the Congress. The expulsion decision took three to four days, allowing Krishnam’s narrative to gain momentum.
Krishnam began his political journey with the Congress, known as Pramod Tyagi at the time, engaging in Congress politics in Ghaziabad during the 90s. His association with Congress leader Rajesh Pilot continued until Pilot’s demise, after which he aligned with Mahavir Prasad. Krishnam later transformed into Acharya Pramod Krishnam, associated with Kalki Dham. When Congress returned to power in 2004, he rejoined the party and became a prominent spokesperson, representing Congress as a Hindu face. Congress believed that Krishnam, presenting himself as a Baba, was well-suited to speak on their behalf.
As Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi assumed leadership roles, Krishnam aligned himself with Priyanka’s camp. He served as Priyanka’s advisor and committee member. In 2019, he sought a Congress ticket from Lucknow and worked to secure tickets for others, but faced setbacks. Controversies surrounded him after an audio release, but he maintained his ties with the party. Krishnam continued as part of Priyanka’s team in the 2022 assembly elections, providing suggestions.