Sonia Gandhi’s name for RS doing the rounds; Initial poll panel by Feb 5

Jaipur: Congress is preparing to bet on MLAs in Lok Sabha elections and sources reveal that preliminary discussion has been held with about half a dozen MLAs regarding contesting elections based on regional and caste equations. Although some MLAs said that there was no “expense.” In such a situation, Congress can give assurance of contesting the elections at its own level. The names of powerful and former ministers could also be seriously considered. Congress election committee will prepare the initial panel by February 5.

Interestingly, there is a major churning in Congress for Rajya Sabha as Sonia Gandhi’s name is being considered for Rajya Sabha instead of Lok Sabha. However, decision on this has to be taken by Sonia Gandhi herself. Names of Ajay Maken and Abhishek Manu Singhvi are also in discussion. However, if any leader from Rajasthan is made the candidate, then Bhanwar Jitendra will be in the race.