NEW DELHI: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra secured her first electoral victory in the Wayanad bypoll, registering a decisive lead of over 4.10 lakh votes against her closest rival, CPI’s Sathyan Mokeri. With party ally IUML and other leaders predicting a record-breaking margin, Priyanka’s debut has further consolidated Congress’s presence in the constituency.
According to Election Commission data, Priyanka garnered 6,22,338 votes, leading by 4,10,931 votes over Mokeri, who secured 2,22407 votes.
Assembly Election Results
The BJP-led NDA’s Navya Haridas stood third with 1,09,939 votes.
Priyanka expressed gratitude through a heartfelt post on X, “My dearest sisters and brothers of Wayanad, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me. I will make sure that over time, you truly feel this victory has been your victory… I look forward to being your voice in Parliament!”
She also thanked her family, campaign workers, and the UDF coalition, saying, “To my brother, Rahul, you are the bravest of them all… Thank you for showing me the way and having my back, always!”
Support from Allies
IUML supremo Panakkad Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal and National General Secretary P.K. Kunhalikutty noted that Priyanka might surpass her brother Rahul Gandhi’s past victory margins. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy praised her early lead, calling it a “grand win” and a promising debut.
Historical context
Rahul Gandhi, who vacated the Wayanad seat after winning from Rae Bareilly, secured 3.64 lakh votes in the April general election, down from his 2019 margin of 4.31 lakh. This bypoll turnout, at 65%, was notably lower than previous elections.
Key takeaways
Priyanka’s campaign saw her connect deeply with voters despite the lower turnout, cementing her position as a significant leader in Congress and the United Democratic Front (UDF). With this win, she has firmly positioned herself in national politics, echoing the legacy of the Gandhi family.
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