Partymen also feel that even if the Congress strikes an alliance with the SP, it should field Raj Babbar, currently an SP MP, from Fatehpur Sikri since the veteran actor has a mass appeal and stands a good chance of sailing through.

Dr Krishan Veer Singh Kaushal, a local Congress leader, said it is up to the high command to decide whether to tie up with the SP or go it alone, but the party workers would prefer Babbar as a Congress candidate from Fatehpur.

The partymen are waiting for February 8, when Congress office-bearers will meet in New Delhi to decide on candidates, said Ram Tandon, a senior Congressman. On the possible tie-up with the SP, he said since Kalyan Singh has moved closer to Mulayam, an alliance with the SP coalition may not be possible. When contacted, the state party president Rita Bahuguna Joshi said, “We are supporting Babbar from the Fatehpur Sikri seat. It does not matter whether he fights individually or on the party ticket.”