Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 17: After weeks of speculation, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has confirmed which Lok Sabha seat he will represent.

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul won from both the Rae Bareli seat in Uttar Pradesh and the Wayanad seat in Kerala. The decision on which seat he would choose to represent in the 18th Lok Sabha had been eagerly awaited.

Following a high-level party meeting on Monday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge announced that Rahul will retain the Rae Bareli seat, while Priyanka Gandhi will contest in the bypoll for the Wayanad seat.

"Rahul Gandhi was elected from two (Lok Sabha) seats. As per rules, he will have to vacate one seat and continue on one seat. Since June 18 is the last date, we have decided that Rahul should keep his Rae Bareli seat, as it has been very close to the family for a long time. He has received love from the people of Wayanad, and they want him to retain the seat, but the rules do not allow it. So, after much deliberation, we decided that Priyanka Gandhi should contest from Wayanad, and she has agreed," said Kharge.

Priyanka Gandhi's entry into electoral politics

This marks Priyanka Gandhi's first entry into electoral politics.

"I am very happy to represent Wayanad. I assure the people that I will not let them feel Rahul's absence. As Rahul mentioned, he will visit often, but I will work hard to be a good representative and make everyone happy. I have a special connection with Rae Bareli, having worked there and in Amethi for 20 years," said Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Rahul Gandhi's sentimental bond with both seats

Following Kharge's announcement, Rahul expressed his deep connection to both Rae Bareli and Wayanad.

"I was the Wayanad MP for the last five years, and I am grateful for the love I received from its people. Priyanka will contest from Wayanad, but I will continue to visit and ensure we fulfill our promises there. I have a long-standing relationship with Rae Bareli and am happy to represent it. This was not an easy decision, as I have affection for both Wayanad and Rae Bareli," he said.

"Priyanka is going to fight the elections, and I am confident she will win. The people of Wayanad can consider themselves as having two Members of Parliament—my sister and me. My doors are always open for the people of Wayanad. I love every single person there," added Rahul Gandhi.