On 10 February 2022, residents of Uttar Pradesh started to go to the polls in seven phases, with the results eventually being declared on 10 March 2022. Being India’s most populous state, the elections of the legislative assembly are always followed very closely and considered to be a great barometer for analysts who are looking to gauge public sentiments in the lead up to the next national elections. In the Lok Sabha, Uttar Pradesh holds the largest share of seats as the state sends 80 parliamentarians to the assembly. This year’s election was deemed to be crucial due to the state and center’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, it would also be a referendum for the firebrand Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, who is also the Chief Priest of the Gorakhnath Math. Generally, anti-incumbency sentiments are strong in Uttar Pradesh, and this was another challenge for the ruling BJP.
