November 23, 2024: In a resounding victory for the Congress, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has won the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat in Kerala with an impressive lead of 4 lakh votes, surpassing her brother Rahul Gandhi's previous record in the constituency. Priyanka, 52, triumphed over her nearest rival, LDF's Sathyan Mokeri, by securing a commanding margin of victory.

Vadra’s win, widely anticipated, exceeded the expectations of political analysts who were keen to see the final margin and voter turnout. Rahul Gandhi had earlier won the seat with a 3.64 lakh vote lead in the 2019 general elections.

In this bypoll, Priyanka garnered a significant 6.06 lakh votes, while Mokeri polled just 2.02 lakh votes. BJP candidate Navya Haridas, 39, secured 1.06 lakh votes, marking a notable performance for the party despite its distant third-place finish. The BJP’s share of over one lakh votes could offer some encouragement, given the party's otherwise uphill challenge in Kerala.

In a heartfelt message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her gratitude for the trust shown by the voters. "I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me," she wrote. "I will make sure that over time, you truly feel this victory has been your victory, and the person you chose to represent you understands your hopes and dreams and fights for you as one of your own. I look forward to being your voice in Parliament."

She also thanked Congress workers in Kerala and her family, dedicating her victory to them. "And to my brother, Rahul, you are the bravest of them all… thank you for showing me the way and having my back, always!" she added, paying tribute to her brother's legacy in the region.

The bypoll, held on November 13, saw a sharp drop in voter turnout compared to previous elections. Only 64.72% of the electorate cast their votes, a significant decline from the 72.92% turnout earlier this year, and the 80.33% recorded in 2019. While the lower turnout raised some concerns, Vadra’s strong performance reflects her growing influence in the region.

With her win, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s victory becomes a crucial symbolic and strategic boost for the Congress in Kerala, as the party looks to strengthen its foothold in a state that remains a stronghold of the Left Democratic Front (LDF).