Is Low Turnout in Wayanad By-Election a Matter of Concern for Congress & Priyanka Gandhi

The recent Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election witnessed a turnout of just 64.72%, marking the lowest voting percentage since the constituency’s creation in 2009. This election was prompted by Rahul Gandhi's resignation from the seat, with his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, contesting as the Congress candidate. 

Priyanka faces competition from CPI’s Sathyan Mokeri and BJP’s Navya Haridas. The lower-than-expected turnout has raised concerns within Congress, which had earlier expressed confidence in a wide victory margin for Priyanka, forecasting a lead of 5 lakh votes.

Congress Optimism Despite Low Turnout

Despite the reduced voter participation, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) remains confident. They claim that the low turnout will not significantly impact the outcome, with UDF leaders asserting that Priyanka Gandhi remains in a strong position. UDF leaders believe that Congress’s standing in Wayanad remains robust and that the reduced turnout does not indicate a weakened support base.

CPI's Voter Engagement Lags Behind

One of the reasons suggested for the low turnout is a lack of enthusiasm among voters in CPI(M)-dominated areas. VD Satheesan, Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, attributed the decline in voter participation partly to the apparent disengagement in regions under CPI(M) influence. Satheesan said that the turnout was relatively low in several areas, which contributed to the overall drop in voting percentage.

Congress has not held back in rallying its senior leadership to support Priyanka Gandhi’s campaign. Key figures such as All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretaries KC Venugopal and Deepa Dasmuni actively engaged in meetings and public outreach efforts alongside Priyanka Gandhi. In addition, Congress made sure that its MLAs and local workers were actively present in the area to mobilize support.

Party president Mallikarjun Kharge, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also played an active role in the campaign, participating in events and urging grassroots party workers to strengthen support for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the Wayanad constituency.

Impact of Recent Floods in Wayanad

The by-election took place in the aftermath of severe flooding that devastated Wayanad district, leading to the loss of 231 lives, with 47 people still missing. The flood's impact on the local populace may have influenced voter turnout, as people deal with the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Despite the historic low turnout, Congress leaders are hopeful that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will secure a victory in Wayanad. The UDF believes their support base remains intact, and that the reduced turnout will not deter the party’s chances. Now, with voting concluded, all eyes are on the results to see if Priyanka can overcome the challenges posed by the low voter turnout and emerge victorious in Wayanad.

(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)