Congress has shared a list of around 170 Assembly constituencies with the Samajwadi Party as the allies begin negotiations for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections, according to party sources. The list forms the basis for discussions and does not represent an agreed allocation. Both parties are expected to make adjustments as they work towards their stated common objective of defeating the BJP. However, Congress is seeking a larger electoral role, setting the stage for several rounds of bargaining.
Congress Shares Seats Divided Into Four Categories
Congress has classified its preferred constituencies into Categories A, B, C and D, based on organisational strength and its assessment of winning prospects. Sources indicated that the party has largely settled its position on Category A constituencies, where it sees limited scope for compromise. Category B seats could allow some adjustments, while Categories C and D offer greater flexibility. A joint committee of leaders from both parties may be formed to work through competing claims. The final arrangement will depend on further discussions, with Congress seeking what it considers a respectable share.
Congress Seeks 115–120 Seats in UP Election 2027
Although Congress sources say the party has not fixed a formal demand at this stage, leaders have indicated reluctance to accept fewer than 115–120 seats in the 403-member Assembly. The party is citing its six-seat victory in Uttar Pradesh during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections to support its case. State Congress in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam has separately advocated contesting half the Assembly constituencies.
Congress contested 114 seats in its 2017 alliance with the Samajwadi Party. Its leaders now argue that the party needs enough space to rebuild its presence. Differences remain visible. Saharanpur MP Imran Masood has cautioned against sacrificing Congress’s prospects for its ally. Akhilesh Yadav, meanwhile, has stressed that the alliance should prioritise winning over the number of seats each partner contests.
Congress Plans Rahul Gandhi and Social Justice Outreach
Congress leaders believe Rahul Gandhi’s focus on the Constitution and social justice could help the party attract Dalit, minority and non-Yadav OBC voters. These assessments remain the party’s political reading rather than an established electoral shift.
A proposed Ballia-to-Meerut yatra is among the outreach plans under consideration, alongside campaigning across Purvanchal and Awadh. Through its Sangathan Srijan initiative, Congress is also working to strengthen its organisation across all 403 constituencies. Party insiders hope dissatisfaction with the BJP government after two consecutive terms could create opportunities to expand their support.
Congress Tightens Candidate Selection Before UP Polls
Congress is considering giving preference to candidates with strong local credibility and the financial capacity to sustain an election campaign, according to a senior party functionary. Exceptions could be made for candidates from modest backgrounds who demonstrate a realistic chance of victory. Candidates may also be expected to contribute to the organisation’s funds.
The proposed approach follows concerns within the party about campaign spending during the 2022 elections. According to the supplied account, some candidates who received financial support faced allegations of retaining funds instead of adequately campaigning. Congress contested 399 constituencies in 2022 but secured only two seats. Its preparations for 2027 therefore combine tougher candidate screening, organisational expansion and negotiations for a larger share of alliance constituencies.
