In a recent political development in Kerala, BJP Chief K Surendran took a sharp dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's decision to vacate his parliamentary seat in Wayanad. Surendran accused the Congress party of treating Kerala as a "political ATM," alleging that Rahul Gandhi had betrayed the trust of Wayanad's electorate by his decision.

Rahul Gandhi's move to vacate Wayanad comes in the wake of his dual victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from both Wayanad and Rae Bareli. According to electoral norms, he is required to retain only one seat, prompting him to choose Rae Bareli over Wayanad. This decision has sparked criticism from the BJP, who had contested against Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad and had foreseen such a move.

Meanwhile, the Congress party swiftly designated Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, another prominent leader, to contest the upcoming by-poll in Wayanad. This move is seen as a strategic maneuver to maintain Congress's stronghold in the region and to capitalize on Priyanka Gandhi's popularity among voters.

VD Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, welcomed Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to Wayanad and expressed confidence in her ability to secure a historic victory margin in the upcoming by-election. He emphasized her popularity and predicted that her candidacy would resonate positively not only in Wayanad but throughout Kerala.

Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress chief, confirmed the decision during a press conference, stating that Rahul Gandhi would retain Rae Bareli while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would contest from Wayanad. This decision followed consultations among top party leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra herself.

The BJP's criticism revolves around their assertion that the Congress party only turns to Kerala during political crises, using the state solely for electoral gains. They argue that Rahul Gandhi's shifting focus away from Wayanad demonstrates a lack of commitment to the constituency and its people.

As the political landscape in Wayanad evolves with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry, all eyes are now on the upcoming by-poll. Political analysts anticipate a fiercely contested election, with the BJP aiming to capitalize on discontent over Rahul Gandhi's decision, while the Congress hopes to reinforce its position with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's candidacy.

This strategic realignment in Kerala politics underscores the intricate dynamics between national leaders and regional electoral strategies, shaping the narrative for the upcoming by-election and beyond.

Also Read : Rahul Gandhi to Retain Rae Bareli, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to Contest Wayanad Bypoll

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst & Finance Saathi Telegram Channel for Regular Share Market, News & IPO Updates