Theres much less enthusiasm for the Sonia factor in Gujarat than in Rajasthan and in many other states. But to the extent that the Congress is back as a fighting force in the state, it is owning to its new, fair totem. Her Pallav-framed face, often along with those of Rajiv and Indira Gandhi, waves out from high quality four colour posters acrosss the state. She hasnt campaigned much in this state so far, but is sure to draw crowds, and some votes, when she turns to Gujarat, which is slated for polling entirely in the last phase, on Februrary 28.
Only traditional congress votes are so far responsive to Gandhi, but some of them say they may not have voted for kesri-led congres but are enthusiastic about Indira Gandhis daughter in law.
The BJP is clearly wary. Punjabhai B Patel, sarpanch and BJP leder of the Sapa village near Kapadvanj says people will go to see sonia Gandhi but the public is aware. And Arvindbhai K Patel, a BJP worker in village Lamvel near Anand, says Christians are being told in their churches, on instructions from abroad, to vote for him.
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Most voters, however, are simply distinterested, in Gandhi and the election process in general. Som talk of their faith in or disenchantment with sitting members. Others talk of issues like water and electrictiy- their non-availability and their prices. A few enthusiasts still talk of Hindutva, but overall there is nothing like the passion of 1991.