The narrow bylanes of Shuklaganj in Unnao wear a look of festivity. Residents living in the homes that line the cobwebby network of roads peer out with curiosity. Some have knowing smiles on their faces while others feign disinterest as they watch Asha Singh, Congress’s much-talked-about candidate from Unnao Sadar, go from door to door seeking votes. Beside her walks her daughter, her stern face and sharp eyes keeping a watch on everything happening around her. While Congress has given tickets to many unconventional women from across the spectrum, including ASHA workers and anti-CAA/NRC protesters, Asha Singh’s name stands out because she owes her candidacy to the fact that she is a mother. The mother of a rape survivor.