The workers of the IUML were particularly enthusiastic because they could liberally use the party flag, which was banned during Rahul’s campaign in the general elections.

Meanwhile, Priyanka has thanked voters in Wayanad for the “trust they have placed in her.” In a message on the social media platform, she said “I look forward to being your voice in Parliament.”

“My colleagues in the UDF, leaders from across Kerala, workers, volunteers and my office colleagues who worked incredibly hard in this campaign, thank you for your support, for tolerating my 12-hour a day (no food, no rest) car journeys, and for fighting like true soldiers for the ideals we all believe in,” she said.

Rahul said he feels “immense pride as my family in Wayanad has placed its trust in Priyanka.” In a message, he said: “I know she will lead with courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to transform our cherished Wayanad into a beacon of progress and prosperity.”

Meanwhile, CPI district secretary E J Babu has said the party would examine the dip in vote share. In a statement, he said there was a lack of interest among voters because it was an election imposed on them.

Puthuppally

Puthuppally

Votes Polled: 1,30,563

Polling Percentage: 73.17

Candidate Party Votes %

Chandy Oommen CONG 80,144 61.38

Jaick C Thomas CPM 42,425 32.49

Ligin Lal BJP 6,558 5.02

Chandy Oommen elected by a margin of 37,719 votes