India, July 13 -- The battle lines are largely drawn, major poll issues appear defined, and political loyalties of major caste blocs seem settled ahead of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections due early 2027. But two major caste groups-Brahmins and Dalits, particularly Jatavs-are seen to be indecisive. Election data and political behaviour indicate the significant role they will play in deciding the winner.

The simmering anger among Brahmins and the shift of Jatavs to the Samajwadi Party (SP)-Congress alliance in the 2024 elections are notable. Both can derail the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s hopes to retain power for the third time.

BJP poll managers are not overly worried about the Brahmins, as they can be mollified and have limited ...