Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday appealed to the voters of Wayanad to support his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in the ongoing by-election for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat. Taking to social media, Rahul Gandhi emphasized that Priyanka will not only be a representative for the people of Wayanad but will also serve as their sister, daughter, and advocate.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Rahul Gandhi said, “I’m reaching out to my family in Wayanad this election. My sister, Priyanka Gandhi, is ready to be your voice in Parliament. She will be more than just a representative – she will be your sister, your daughter, and your advocate. I am confident she will help unlock Wayanad’s full potential.”
He further urged the electorate to participate actively in the bypolls, saying, “I urge all of you to come out, vote, and support her. Let’s ensure a resounding victory together!”
By-Poll Context and Key Contenders
The bypoll for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat was necessitated after Rahul Gandhi vacated the seat following his victory in both Wayanad and Rae Bareli in the general elections held earlier this year. With Rahul Gandhi retaining his Rae Bareli seat, the Wayanad constituency has now become vacant, prompting the by-election.
Voting for the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll commenced at 7 am on Wednesday. The constituency covers seven assembly segments across Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram districts, including Mananthavady (ST), Sulthan Bathery (ST), Kalpetta, Thiruvambady, Eranad, Nilambur, and Wandoor.
Priyanka Gandhi, who is making her electoral debut, is contesting the seat as the candidate of the Congress-led UDF alliance. She faces stiff competition from Sathyan Mokeri of the CPI(M)-led LDF and Navya Haridas of the BJP-led NDA, both of whom are considered the top contenders in the race.
With Priyanka Gandhi seeking to build on her brother’s legacy in the region, her campaign has gained considerable attention as the bypoll unfolds.
