Speculation about Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s potential electoral debut resurfaced as sources informed that she might run for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat if Rahul Gandhi vacates it. This speculation follows Priyanka’s decision not to contest in the recent Lok Sabha polls, where she had been a much-discussed potential candidate.
Rahul Gandhi, who secured victories in both the Raebareli and Wayanad constituencies, hinted at a possible debut for his sister by stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would have lost “by two-three lakh votes” if Priyanka had contested against him in Varanasi.
The anticipation around Priyanka Gandhi running for office has persisted since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections when there was talk of her challenging PM Modi in Varanasi. Although she didn’t run, Priyanka later hinted she might contest in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh elections as Congress General Secretary, even suggesting she could be a chief ministerial candidate, though she later clarified it was in jest.
Ahead of the 2024 elections, Sonia Gandhi transitioned from the Raebareli seat, which she held since 2004, to become a Rajya Sabha MP. This fueled speculation that Priyanka would contest from Raebareli, while Rahul would aim to reclaim Amethi from BJP’s Smriti Irani.
Sources indicated that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge encouraged the Gandhi siblings to make a decision, emphasizing the importance of their participation for party morale and alliances. However, Priyanka chose not to contest, with sources suggesting her decision was to avoid reinforcing BJP’s dynastic politics narrative.
During the campaign, Priyanka focused on Raebareli and Amethi, contributing to Congress’s significant wins in these areas. The Samajwadi Party-Congress alliance’s success in Uttar Pradesh, where they won 43 of 80 constituencies, contrasted with BJP’s reduced count of 33.
After the elections, Rahul Gandhi praised his sister’s efforts in UP.
Priyanka’s potential run in the Wayanad bypoll depends on Rahul Gandhi possibly vacating the seat in favor of Raebareli, a decision influenced by UP’s national political significance. Although Rahul expressed his dilemma and indecision, it is believed he will choose Raebareli.
Key Congress figures, including Kishori Lal Sharma and Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief K Sudhakaran, suggested Rahul might leave Wayanad. Sudhakaran stated, “Everyone should understand that and give all their wishes and support to him.”
In Wayanad, Congress workers have displayed banners urging Rahul not to “leave them” and requesting Priyanka to “take care of” the constituency if he does.
Bypolls must be held within six months if Rahul vacates a seat, setting the stage for an intriguing electoral contest.
