Priyanka Gandhi makes heroic debut in Wayanad, breaks Rahul's record of a 3.65 lakh vote margin

In a resounding debut in Indian electoral politics, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has emerged victorious in the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll, breaking her brother Rahul Gandhi's record of a 3.65 lakh vote margin. Priyanka secured a lead of over 4 lakh votes, a historic feat that has further cemented the Congress party's stronghold in the constituency.

The bypoll in Wayanad was necessitated after Rahul Gandhi, who won both Wayanad and Rae Bareli seats in the 2024 general elections, chose to retain the latter. Over the past few weeks, bypolls were conducted in 48 assembly seats across 14 states, along with two Lok Sabha constituencies—Wayanad in Kerala and Nanded in Maharashtra.

Priyanka Gandhi’s victory comes despite a decline in voter turnout. Wayanad witnessed approximately 65% voter participation, significantly lower than the nearly 74% turnout in April 2024 and the over 80% turnout in the 2019 general elections. Despite this, her campaign gained immense traction, boosted by active support from Rahul Gandhi and a deep connection with the local electorate.

In one of his campaign rallies, Rahul Gandhi praised his sister’s dedication, saying, “If she likes you, she will do whatever; beyond anything you can imagine. She is also going to like Wayanad a lot. You see, a huge part of being a good MP is that you like the people and place you work for. She is going to like it.” His remarks underscored the Congress party’s emphasis on Priyanka’s suitability for the constituency.

Election Results

Priyanka Gandhi’s nearest competitor, Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India (CPI), trailed with over 2.07 lakh votes, while the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) candidate, Navya Haridas, finished third with around 1.08 lakh votes. Priyanka’s massive lead further strengthened Congress’ foothold in Kerala, a state that has consistently supported the party in recent years.

A Symbolic Win for the Congress

The victory is being seen as a pivotal moment for the Congress party, which has been working to regain its prominence in national politics. Priyanka Gandhi’s entry into the electoral arena adds a new dimension to the party’s leadership and strategy, especially as it looks ahead to the next round of elections.

With her debut win breaking records, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has not only made history but also energized Congress supporters across the country, signaling a potential revival of the party’s influence in key regions.