Wayanad By Election Result 2024: The Wayanad parliamentary seat has emerged as the focal point of national attention as Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contests her first election, vying for victory in the high-stakes bypoll. Her entry has set the stage for a three-way contest with seasoned CPI leader Sathyan Mokeri representing the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the BJP’s Navya Haridas for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
A Historic Stronghold for Congress
Wayanad, a Congress bastion since its formation in 2008, has consistently delivered victories for the party. Rahul Gandhi, who first won the seat in 2019, cemented his popularity with resounding margins in the 2019 and 2024 general elections, securing victories by 4.3 lakh and 3.6 lakh votes, respectively.
However, Rahul’s decision to vacate the Wayanad seat after retaining Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh during the 2024 elections necessitated the bypoll. Congress placed its faith in Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, banking on her charisma and appeal to retain the seat.
Priyanka Gandhi’s Campaign Gains Momentum
Priyanka’s campaign has resonated with large audiences, particularly women, who have formed a significant part of her rally crowds. The Congress’s campaign strategy combines large public rallies with grassroots-level efforts, such as door-to-door canvassing and community engagement programs.
Her campaign’s focus on tribal welfare, farmers’ concerns, and women’s empowerment align with the constituency’s key issues, strengthening her rapport with the electorate.
Competitors and Challenges
The bypoll has become a dynamic political battlefield. Sathyan Mokeri, representing the LDF, is a seasoned political figure with a strong base among the Left’s traditional supporters. Meanwhile, BJP’s Navya Haridas is campaigning on a platform of development and Hindutva, appealing to the constituency’s smaller but vocal BJP base.
While Priyanka is seen as the frontrunner, political observers remain cautious, noting that a relatively low voter turnout could impact the Congress’s expected margin.
Election Commission’s Efforts
To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Election Commission has implemented extensive measures, including the establishment of 1,354 polling stations, each equipped with webcasting facilities for real-time monitoring.
Congress Confident Despite Low Turnout
Despite the reduced voter turnout, the Congress remains optimistic. The district party leadership estimates that Priyanka Gandhi will secure nearly six lakh of the 9.52 lakh votes cast, with Sathyan Mokeri and Navya Haridas trailing with two lakh and one lakh votes, respectively.
AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal expressed confidence, stating, “We are not at all worried about the victory or majority Priyanka Gandhi will secure. The low voter turnout will not impact the majority.”
A Crucial Test for Congress and Priyanka Gandhi
This bypoll is not just a litmus test for Priyanka Gandhi’s political debut but also a reflection of the Congress’s hold over Wayanad. For the UDF, retaining this stronghold is vital for bolstering its morale ahead of the next general elections.
The results of this high-profile bypoll will be closely watched, not just in Kerala but across India, as Priyanka Gandhi’s performance could significantly influence the Congress’s narrative and momentum going forward.