Ajay Rai, a prominent figure in Varanasi’s political landscape, has had a long and eventful career marked by both significant achievements and considerable controversy. His journey from a BJP youth member to a five-time MLA and prominent Congress leader reveals a complex and compelling narrative.
Wiki/Biography
Ajay Rai was born on October 19, 1969, in Varanasi (age 54 as of 2023). His astrological sign is Libra. He completed his schooling locally in Varanasi and later graduated from Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, also in Varanasi. His foray into politics began with the BJP’s Youth Wing, a stepping stone to a career that would see him shift allegiances and contest elections on multiple party tickets.
Physical Appearance
Here’s a summary of his physical attributes:
- Height: 5′ 5″
- Weight: 80 kg
- Eye Color: Black
Family
Ajay Rai hails from the Bhumihar community. His parents are Surendra Rai and Parvati Devi Rai. He tragically lost a brother, Awadhesh Rai, who was allegedly murdered. He is married to Reena Rai and they have three children: a son, Shantanu Rai, and two daughters, Shraddha Rai and Aastha Rai.
Political Career
Rai’s political career started with the BJP’s Youth Wing. His first electoral victory came in 1996 as a BJP candidate for the Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections, a surprising win against a long-standing incumbent. His subsequent career involved transitions to the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Indian National Congress (INC).
His move to the SP and later to the Congress was marked by both electoral success and setbacks. He contested against Narendra Modi in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections, ultimately losing both times. Despite these defeats, he remained a significant figure within the Congress Party. He was appointed President of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) in August 2023.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, he again contested from Varanasi, facing Narendra Modi. The results showed Modi winning with a substantial margin.
| Election Year | Constituency | Party | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Kolasala (UP Assembly) | BJP | Won |
| 2009 | Varanasi (Lok Sabha) | SP | Lost |
| 2014 | Varanasi (Lok Sabha) | INC | Lost |
| 2019 | Varanasi (Lok Sabha) | INC | Lost |
| 2024 | Varanasi (Lok Sabha) | INC | Lost |
Controversies
Rai’s career has been intertwined with several controversies. These include allegations ranging from firing on a vehicle to involvement in violence during protests. Multiple cases have been registered against him, though not all have resulted in convictions.
- A 1991 FIR related to firing on a vehicle.
- A 2014 complaint regarding waving a party flag inside a polling booth.
- A 2015 arrest for allegedly setting a trader on fire.
- A 2015 arrest for involvement in violence during a protest.
Facts
Ajay Rai is a five-time MLA from the Pindra constituency. He is known for his religious devotion and frequently participates in religious events. His deep roots in Varanasi, where he was born and raised, are often highlighted in his campaigns. A notable ritual is his visit to the Kaal Bhairav Temple before filing his nomination papers.
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