The anticipation surrounding the Congress's picks for the crucial Amethi and Raebareli Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttar Pradesh is expected to culminate today, just ahead of the nomination deadline. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is slated to unveil the chosen candidates for the two seats.

Speculation has been rife regarding the potential candidacies of former party president Rahul Gandhi for Amethi and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for Raebareli. Rahul Gandhi, aiming for a comeback in Amethi after his defeat to BJP's Smriti Irani in 2019, may also contest from Kerala's Wayanad alongside his current constituency.

Meanwhile, the prospect of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra entering electoral politics for Raebareli, a seat held by Sonia Gandhi since 2004, has sparked discussions within the party. However, concerns about perpetuating "dynastic politics" prompt hesitancy towards fielding all three Gandhi family members in parliament, a charge often levied by the BJP.

Despite the delay in the announcement, Congress leaders remain resolute. Senior party figure Jairam Ramesh emphasized ongoing discussions and dismissed any sense of apprehension. With the nomination deadline looming, the decision now awaits the Central Election Committee (CEC), as the Congress aims to solidify its stance in these historically significant constituencies.