The Candidate: Meet Ajay Rai, brother of Mukhtar Ansari's rival; Fighting PM Modi in Varanasi

The Candidate: In the twisting lanes of Varanasi, where history and spirituality intertwine, another narrative unfolds – one of political resilience and determination. At the heart of this tale stands Ajay Rai, a figure whose name has become synonymous with the spirited challenge against none other than the Prime Minister himself, Narendra Modi. As the electoral battleground heats up once again, Rai's candidacy from Varanasi under the Congress banner not only marks a political contest but also symbolizes a tenacious pursuit for representation and change. Let's delve into the intriguing journey of this maverick leader, from his roots in student activism to the corridors of power in Uttar Pradesh's political landscape.

Ajay Rai's political journey

Rai's political journey began with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), where he actively participated in student politics as a convenor of the BJP's student wing, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). He also played a role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and faced legal repercussions for his involvement.

Unraveling Awadhesh Rai murder case 

The 1980s marked a transformative era for the Ghazipur-Varanasi belt. As the government initiated development projects to uplift this once-neglected region, contracts for crucial infrastructure work became coveted assets. However, beneath the facade of progress lurked the shadows of gang warfare, as the burgeoning contractor mafia vied for control.

Emergence of ganglords

Amidst this milieu, the formidable figure of Brijesh Singh rose to prominence, wielding influence over Ghazipur's contract business. Yet, his dominance faced a formidable challenge from Mukhtar Ansari, who was determined to carve his own empire in the lucrative Rs 100-crore deal of coal mining, railway construction, scrap disposal, and liquor trade. Their rivalry soon escalated into a deadly power struggle, with violent clashes between their factions becoming commonplace.

At the heart of this conflict stood Awadhesh Rai, a revered figure in Varanasi renowned for orchestrating grand Durga Puja festivities. His popularity and influence posed a major obstacle to Mukhtar Ansari's aspirations of monopolizing the contract business. Traders revered Awadhesh Rai, thwarting Ansari's attempts to extend his sphere of influence and bolster his extortion racket.

Awadhesh Rai's assassination

On a fateful day in August 1991, tragedy struck as Awadhesh Rai fell victim to a hail of bullets outside his home in Varanasi's Maldiya area. Ajay Rai, his brother and staunch ally, valiantly retaliated against the assailants, driving them away. Despite Ajay's efforts and the desperate rush to the hospital, Awadhesh succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a legacy of defiance against criminal hegemony.

The long road to conviction

For nearly three decades, justice eluded Awadhesh Rai's family as the case remained ensnared in a web of political patronage and bureaucratic apathy. Mukhtar Ansari's formidable clout cast a shadow over the investigation, stalling progress and dimming hopes of closure. However, a pivotal shift occurred when Ansari's influence waned, paving the way for renewed scrutiny. Despite legal hurdles and the mysterious disappearance of crucial evidence, the relentless pursuit of truth led to Ansari's conviction and a life sentence.

Rai's enduring influence

Ajay Rai, a central figure in this saga, straddled the realms of politics and organized crime. With ties to gangster-politician Brijesh Singh, Rai's enigmatic persona epitomized the complex intersections of power and influence in Uttar Pradesh's political arena. Despite facing criminal charges, Rai's ascent as a Congress leader propelled him into the electoral fray, culminating in a high-stakes battle against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi.

Transition to Congress

Despite starting his career with the BJP and serving as a three-time MLA representing the Kolasla seat in Varanasi, Rai's departure from the saffron camp came after being denied a Lok Sabha ticket in 2009. His subsequent move to the Samajwadi Party (SP) also didn't secure victory.

Congress stint

Rai eventually found a home in the Congress in 2012. He won the Pindra seat in Varanasi. Rai's entry into Congress coincided with his first direct contest against PM Modi in 2014.

Ajay Rai vs Narendra Modi

Despite finishing third behind Arvind Kejriwal and PM Modi in the 2014 elections, Rai's commitment to contesting against the Prime Minister has remained unwavering. He continued to play a significant role in Congress, assuming key organizational responsibilities despite electoral setbacks.

Varanasi's choice

Now, for the third time, Rai is once again pitted against Prime Minister Modi in the Varanasi Lok Sabha in Uttar Pradesh. How much trouble he is going to create for Modi in the Varanashi, only time can tell.