Kerala, Nov 23 (V7N) — Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi is on course for a landslide victory in the Wayanad assembly by-election, leading by a staggering five lakh votes. As counting continues, Priyanka is expected to secure a historic win in her debut election.

The counting of votes began on Saturday morning, with updates indicating a strong performance for Priyanka against her primary opponents—former MLA and CPI state co-editor Satyan Mokeri, and BJP Mahila Morcha state general secretary Navya Haridas. Navya, a prominent BJP figure, had previously won twice in Kozhikode municipal elections.

This victory holds special significance as Wayanad has been a Congress stronghold. Just six months ago, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka’s brother, won the Lok Sabha seat here alongside Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh. Rahul vacated Wayanad for Priyanka, entrusting Rae Bareli to her as well.

In the last Lok Sabha election, CPI's Annie Raja, wife of CPI General Secretary D Raja, contested against Rahul Gandhi but was unable to claim victory. The by-election in Wayanad has further consolidated Congress's dominance in the region.

Although Priyanka has long been a visible face in Congress campaigns, this is her first electoral contest. Her nomination on October 23 marked her formal entry into active electoral politics.

With a decisive lead, Priyanka Gandhi’s victory in Wayanad is poised to strengthen the Congress party’s foothold in Kerala and marks a significant milestone in her political career.

END/RH/AJ