LS Polls and The Big Fights

NEW DELHI: Political heavyweights versus greenhorns, veteran journalists taking on the mighty, dynastic succession challenged by a newcomer, a faded film-star stirring the political pot, and even a rebellious former army general trying his electoral pot luck - this general election has much to keep the 814-strong electorate actively engaged.
A look at some of the interesting constituencies and the evolving battles:

Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh): Varanasi district, home to the Hinduims's ancient city, would witness the most interesting electoral battle - between BJP's prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi and the rest. Aam Admi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal has said he will fight against Modi, but has yet to confirm it.

The final announcement will be made on March 25. While the Congress has yet to name its candidate, the name of Modi baiter Digvijaya Singh has been doing the rounds. Mukhtar Ansari, of the Quami Ekta Dal, is expected to give Modi a strong fight as the constituency has a significant Muslim population. BJP veteran Murli Manohar Joshi had to vacate the seat to make way for Modi's path to Delhi. Poll : May 12

Amritsar (Punjab): This important constituency, seat of Sikhism's holiest shrine, will witness a battle between stalwarts - senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley and former Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh. Jaitley, who has been a strong backer of Narendra Modi's PM candidature and is expected to get an important portfolio if the BJP comes to power, was given the ticket for Amritsar in place of sitting party MP Navjyot Singh Sidhu, who has been representing the city that is home to the Golden Temple, since 2004. Capt Amarinder Singh, former state Congress president, was unwilling to contest but has bowed to the diktat of the party leadership. Poll: April 30.

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