RAI BAREILI

Traditionally a Nehru-Gandhi bastion in Uttar Pradesh, the political battle is being described as a cakewalk for Sonia Gandhi.

The prestigious Rae Bareily constituency is set to hog limelight once again with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi as Congress nominee from here. Traditionally a Nehru-Gandhi bastion in Uttar Pradesh, the political battle is being dubbed as a cakewalk for her.

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Having sent Nehru-Indira family loyalist Satish Sharma to the Lok Sabha in 1999 elections, the constituency is famous for being represented by former PM Indira Gandhi in 1980 after her defeat in 1977 elections and even by her husband Feroze Gandhi earlier.

Satish Sharma faced a tough challenge from BJP Candidate with Nehru-gandhi link Arun Nehru last time but nevertheless came up a winner.

Incorporating part of the territories of Amethi, represented by Congress chief Sonia Gandhi in the 13th Lok Sabha, Rai Bareli has represented a number of those of Nehri-Gandhi family. Arun Nehru won this seat in 1984.

Caste equation

The constituency is inhabited by large number of people belonging to scheduled castes and OBCs. The SCs constitute about 34%, Ahirs 13%, Rajputs and Brahmins 8%, Lodhs 6% and Kachis/Muraos 5%. A fairly large number of Kurmis and Muslims also play crucial role in the elections. Pasis (19%), Chamars (11%)are dominant among Scheduled Castes.