Uttar Pradesh assembly elections: 6-time MLA Fateh Bahadur Singh faces big fight on caste lines

CAMPIERGANJ: Pilgrims on way to Gaurishankar temple in Campierganj, many of whom had voted for incumbent BJP

MLA Fateh Bahadur Singh

, paused to look at the 2km long motorcade of Samajwadi Party candidate Kajal Nishad as she headed to the temple to appeal to voters on the last day of campaign.

More than 400 bike-borne youths shouted slogans in support of former CM Akhilesh Yadav and the party. Kajal followed in an open jeep urging people to vote for change, with not less than 50 SUVs following her.

Minutes later, native Prem Singh remarked: "Fateh Bahadur Singh is tasting the flavour of competition in this election. His victory was never doubted on previous occasions."

The elderly man, who has seen the times of Singh's father and former CM of UP Veer Bahadur Singh, inadvertently outlined the political scenario on the seat, known for its banana cultivation.

Singh has been the people's representative from the seat six times (thrice when the seat was called Paniyara. His supporters fear a David versus Goliath situation when the result is announced on March 10.

"If the caste equation works, Singh's record could be broken," said Ramu Mishra, a shopkeeper.

New entrant Kajal has been able to create enough buzz. "She is a popular face in the region and adding to her popularity among women. Finally, she is a Nishad - the community which forms a third of the electorate on the seat," said a local election analyst, adding that caste factor is in play for the first time.

Explaining what works for Kajal and against Singh, a commentator said: "About 30% voters on the seat belong to the Nishad community, while nearly 17% are Yadavs. It is being assumed that Kajal can win only if Nishad voters consolidate and Yadav votes add."

The veteran and seasoned politician, known for his availability, has played his cards well.

"People here have voted for Singh above caste lines," remarked Rajesh Mani.

Singh is also banking on the division of Nishad voters as both Congress and BSP have fielded candidates from the community: Surendra Nishad and Chandra Prakash, respectively.


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