Synopsis
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra faces a crucial test in the upcoming Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll. She aims to retain the Congress stronghold and surpass her brother Rahul Gandhi’s previous victory margins. Her rivals, however, hope her lack of electoral experience will deter voters. Extensive preparations are underway for the bypoll, with security measures heightened across the constituency.
ANIIn the high-stakes Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is making her electoral debut, aiming to retain her brother Rahul Gandhi‘s stronghold. This contest is significant, as Priyanka not only seeks to preserve Congress’s position but also aims to expand on the substantial victory margins Rahul achieved in the previous elections.
Campaign Strategy: Building on Rahul’s Legacy
Throughout her month-long campaign, Priyanka emphasized Rahul’s tenure as Wayanad’s MP, frequently invoking the “love and affection” he has received from the constituency. Rahul, who currently serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, joined Priyanka at various public events, urging voters to show her the same support they gave him.
Priyanka responded to critiques from her opponents, highlighting her 35 years of political involvement, which began with her campaigning for her father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, in 1989. She asserted that she would continue to visit Wayanad regularly if elected, committing to work for the people’s interests.
Rivals Challenge Priyanka’s Experience
Opposition candidates LDF’s Sathyan Mokeri and NDA’s Navya Haridas have argued that Priyanka’s limited electoral experience might hinder her ability to serve the constituency effectively. Mokeri, who contested in the Wayanad constituency in 2014, reduced the winning margin for the Congress back then, and both the LDF and NDA campaigns have pointed out that Rahul’s visits to Wayanad were infrequent after his initial 2019 win. They claim Priyanka may follow the same pattern, suggesting that Rahul’s previous wins were influenced by the perception that he might become the next prime minister—a factor they argue will not apply this time.
Security and Voting Preparations Underway
In response to the Election Commission’s announcement of the bypoll on October 15, district administrations in Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram have prepared extensive security arrangements. Over 1,000 polling booths will be in place across the constituency, with the deployment of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Armed Police Battalion for election duties.
Malappuram district administration reported several seizures since the model code of conduct was implemented, including narcotics, foreign liquor, and cash. They also seized a country-made gun and ammunition. Police are conducting 24-hour control room operations and round-the-clock patrolling to maintain order on polling day, set to begin at 7 a.m. Wednesday.
A High-Stakes Race with 16 Candidates
The Wayanad constituency has over 14 lakh registered voters, and 16 candidates, including Priyanka, Mokeri, and Haridas, are vying for their support. The final day of the campaign saw roadshows by all three political fronts, with Rahul Gandhi appearing in person to drum up support for his sister.
Vote counting is scheduled for November 23, and the outcome will determine whether Priyanka can uphold her brother’s legacy in this Congress stronghold.
