New Delhi, Oct. 19 -- A few kilometres away from the din of demonstrations unfolding in New Delhi lies the borders of Uttar Pradesh (UP). The state's voters will be the first to pronounce their verdict on the intense struggle waged on the streets of New Delhi.

The path to power in Delhi passes through UP. It's not for nothing that Narendra Modi, born in Gujarat, chose UP as his karmabhoomi. The state has given the nation eight prime ministers. Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati couldn't make it to the top job, but many prime ministers needed the crutches of their support to stay in power.

We know that Yogi Adityanath has been the chief minister of the state for the last 10 years. He enjoys a unique image due to his attire, speech and bold...