Wayanad, a key constituency where Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made her election debut, saw a historic low in voter turnout during the bypoll held on Wednesday.
The turnout recorded at just 64.72% marked the lowest since the seat’s formation in 2009. The by-election followed Rahul Gandhi’s decision to vacate the seat in favor of focusing on his Rae Bareli constituency.
Priyanka Gandhi, campaigning against CPI’s Sathyan Mokeri and BJP’s Navya Haridas, received support from Congress leaders, including KC Venugopal and VD Satheesan. Despite Congress’s goal for a 5-lakh vote majority, the turnout was lower than in nearby Chelakkara, attributed to reduced enthusiasm in CPI(M)-dominated areas.
The election followed a devastating landslide that claimed 231 lives in Wayanad, affecting voter participation. Authorities arranged special provisions for the survivors to ensure they could cast their votes.
Despite the low turnout, Congress leaders downplayed concerns, insisting it wouldn’t impact their projected margin for Priyanka.
