Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is contesting the election for the first time, having submitted her nomination papers today for the by-election to the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat.
During the nomination submission, Priyanka’s mother, Sonia Gandhi, her brother, Rahul Gandhi, and many prominent Congress leaders were present. Priyanka and her mother arrived in Wayanad last night, where they engaged in discussions with local residents.
Key party figures, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, gathered to support Priyanka during this significant moment. After filing her nomination, Priyanka and Rahul plan to hold a roadshow starting from Kallepatta New Bus Stand today.
Voting for the Wayanad by-election will occur on the 13th of next month, with results set to be counted on the 23rd. If Priyanka Gandhi Vadra wins, she will enter Parliament for the first time. This election will mark a historic moment, as all three members of the Gandhi family—Sonia, Priyanka, and Rahul—will be seen together in Parliament.
As Priyanka entered the political arena, her husband, Robert Vadra, was notably absent but expressed his support on social media. He congratulated her on this new endeavour, stating, “I am always with you to support you. Best of luck on your new journey. God help you. The people of the country are waiting for your arrival in Parliament.”
In 2019, Rahul Gandhi contested the election from Wayanad for the first time and won. In 2024, he contested the Rae Bareli seat alongside Wayanad and secured victories in both constituencies.
Since Rahul won two seats, he had to relinquish one, leading him to vacate Wayanad for the upcoming by-elections.
The BJP has nominated Navya Haridas to challenge Priyanka in Wayanad, hoping to secure a win in the constituency.