NEW DELHI: Breaking the suspense on his decision to choose between the two, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who secured victories in both constituencies of Wayanad in Kerala, and Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh in the 2024 general elections, has finally chosen to retain the Rae Bareli seat and vacate the Wayanad seat.

His sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, will now contest from Wayanad. This decision was announced by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday, who stated, "Rahul Gandhi will retain Rae Bareli, and Priyanka ji will contest from Wayanad."

The decision was made after a meeting at Kharge's residence in New Delhi, which included key leaders like Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Rahul Gandhi expressed that Wayanad would effectively have two MPs—himself and his sister—indicating his continued commitment to the constituency. Priyanka Gandhi also assured that she would ensure Wayanad does not feel Rahul's absence while maintaining her strong ties with Amethi and Rae Bareli.

According to the Representation of People Act, a candidate can contest from two Lok Sabha constituencies but can only retain one seat, but as per rules, the winning candidate has to vacate one of the seats within 14 days of the Lok Sabha results, which in case of Rahul Gandhi came out on the counting day of June 4. 

Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi made a statement that she was very happy to represent Wayanad and would not let the people of Wayanad feel Rahul's absence. She said, "I will work hard and I will try my best to make everyone happy and be a good representative. I have a very old relationship with Raebareli and Amethi and it cannot be broken. I will also help my brother in Raebareli. We will both be present in Raebareli and Wayanad.

Recently, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief K Sudhakaran had hinted that Rahul Gandhi might relinquish Wayanad, urging supporters to understand his broader responsibilities.