Priyanka Gandhi's Debut and the Wayanad By-Election Saga

The Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election, marking Priyanka Gandhi's electoral debut, witnessed a decreased voter turnout of 65% compared to previous elections. The Congress-led UDF dismissed turnout concerns, attributing the decline to reduced enthusiasm in CPI(M)-led regions. In contrast, the LDF and NDA cited low turnout in Congress-dominated areas.

The Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election saw Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra making her electoral debut amid a voter turnout of approximately 65 percent. This fell short of the nearly 74 percent turnout recorded in April when her brother, Rahul Gandhi, contested from the constituency.

The turnout during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections was even higher, surpassing 80 percent. Initially, hopes soared with brisk polling after the 7 a.m. start. Yet, as the day progressed, turnout expectations diminished, closing at 64.69 percent by 6 p.m., with potential marginal increases expected as queued voters cast their ballots.

Despite reduced turnout, the Congress-led UDF remains optimistic. V D Satheesan, Leader of Opposition, attributed the decline to voter disinterest in CPI(M)-led areas. The LDF and BJP-led NDA, however, attributed the drop to lower participation in Congress-dominated zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)