Dalits make up close to a sixth of the country’s population and hence are a crucial swing vote. They can make or break the castle for any political party. In terms of Dalit votes, Uttar Pradesh will be a key battleground due to its large size. In 2014, the BJP won half of the 84 seats reserved for Dalits, thus stripping out the caste-based parties. But this year Modi may struggle as Dalits are taking to the streets in protest at an increase in caste-related violence. Modi shall also face the challenge of a united opposition after the Bahujan Samaj Party and Samajwadi Party decided to form an alliance. The two parties are Dalit and other “lower” caste dominated and hence will give a competition to the central ruling government.