A shock to the BJP in Wayanad.. Priyanka Gandhi is rushing

Polling for the Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election was held following Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's resignation from this seat. Counting of votes is underway today, and initial trends show Priyanka Gandhi Vadra leading, with the BJP trailing significantly.

Background

Rahul Gandhi had won the Wayanad seat in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, defeating CPI(M) candidate Annie Raja by over 3.64 lakh votes. He retained his membership from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh, leaving the Wayanad seat vacant, necessitating this by-election.

This election marks Priyanka Gandhi's debut in direct electoral politics. As the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate, she faces competition from CPI(M)’s Satyan Mokeri (Left Democratic Front) and BJP's Navya Haridas (NDA).

Historical Context of Wayanad

Wayanad is one of the most prominent constituencies in South India, known for its cultural and political significance.

The region is famed for its coffee and black pepper production and has a substantial Scheduled Tribe population.

In 2019, Rahul Gandhi secured 64.94% of the vote share in Wayanad, with his nearest CPI(M) rival receiving just over 27%.

Current Contest

The by-election saw 16 candidates contesting, but the focus remains on Priyanka Gandhi, who hopes to replicate her brother’s success. Her direct entry into politics adds weight to this election's outcome.

Voting and Counting

Voting was held on November 13, and the results are expected to be finalized by midday today. Priyanka Gandhi is currently leading with a comfortable margin, and her success could mark a significant milestone in Congress's strategy for the 2024 general elections.