KOCHI: In a historic victory, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has won the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll with a record margin, marking her debut in the Indian Parliament. The Congress leader secured a massive majority of over 4 lakh votes, surpassing the previous records set by her brother, Rahul Gandhi, in the same constituency.

Priyanka Gandhi's entry into the political arena has been nothing short of spectacular. Contesting from Wayanad, a Congress stronghold, she managed to secure 6,17,942 votes, while her nearest rival, Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India (CPI), garnered 2,09,906 votes. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, Navya Haridas, trailed with 1,09,202 votes.

Priyanka's campaign was marked by extensive roadshows and public meetings, which saw unprecedented turnout, especially among women voters. Her ability to connect with the electorate on a personal level played a crucial role in her victory. She addressed the realities of women's lives, acknowledging their roles and responsibilities, which resonated deeply with her audience.

Rahul Gandhi has officially resigned from his Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, choosing to retain his seat in Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh2 This decision came after the Congress party's top brass held discussions and announced the move and his resignation was accepted by the Lok Sabha Speaker with effect from June 18, 2024 which paved the way for his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, to contest the bypoll in Wayanad. Her victory in the bypoll has been significant, marking her debut in the Indian Parliament with a record margin5.

The Malappuram constituencies of Wandoor, Nilambur, and Eranad were significant contributors to Priyanka's victory. These areas provided a substantial portion of her majority, with Wandoor leading the way. The support from these constituencies was instrumental in her surpassing Rahul Gandhi's previous margins.

In her victory speech, Priyanka expressed her gratitude to the people of Wayanad for their overwhelming support. She promised to be a voice for the people in Parliament, ensuring that their hopes and dreams are represented. "I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me. 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," she said.

Priyanka Gandhi's victory is seen as a significant boost for the Congress party, which has been striving to regain its foothold in Indian politics. Her success in Wayanad not only strengthens the party's position in Kerala but also signals a new era of leadership within the Congress. The win also marks a significant milestone in her political career and the Congress party's journey.