Cong counts on Priyanka in UP

In what looks like a lost battle for the Congress, the party is planning to use its last trump card--Priyanka Vadera--in the coming Uttar Pradesh elections. Her name figures in the list of 40 leaders who will campaign in the Hindi heartland.

The names will be sent to the Election Commission so that the expenses on their campaigning are not included in the individual accounts of party candidates.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Salman Khursheed said every candidate wanted Priyanka to campaign in his or her constituency.

"People find her a very exciting campaigner and she carries a lot of political charm. Candidates look forward to having her campaign in their constituencies. I hope she campaigns, but it will ultimately be her decision," Khursheed told Business Standard.

Although Priyanka has been campaigning in her mother's and brother's constituencies--Rae Bareli and Amethi--and has shared dais with her mother at some rallies, she has never been formally drafted as a campaigner in any election.

While Amethi MP Rahul Gandhi's charm was evident from the huge crowds he attracted in his recent roadshow in six districts of Uttar Pradesh, the entry of his sister could change the complexion of the elections, according to Congress leaders.

Party sources said UP held the key to the Congress' future and therefore the party leadership was determined not to leave any stone unturned to revive the party in the state ahead of the 2009 general elections.

"You should not look at her charisma in the context of this election. Let's face it. She can improve our tally significantly but can't get a majority for the party. You should look at what she can do by 2009," said a senior AICC functionary.