New Delhi: In a recent announcement, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has decided to retain the Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh and vacate the Wayanad seat in Kerala, paving the way for his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to contest from Wayanad. This decision was confirmed by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge following discussions among the party's top leadership at his residence in New Delhi. Present at the meeting were prominent Congress figures including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and party general secretary K C Venugopal.

Addressing the media, Kharge explained that while Rahul Gandhi had won from both Rae Bareli and Wayanad, legal requirements necessitate him to vacate one of the seats. Rahul Gandhi will, therefore, retain Rae Bareli. The party has decided that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will be the candidate for Wayanad, emphasizing a strategic move to strengthen their representation. Rahul Gandhi assured that both Rae Bareli and Wayanad would benefit from having two dedicated Members of Parliament working for their development.

Rahul Gandhi emerged victorious in both constituencies during the Lok Sabha elections, with results declared on June 4. According to electoral regulations, he must vacate one of the seats within 14 days of the results. This decision underscores the Congress party's focus on consolidating its influence in key regions, with Rae Bareli being a traditional stronghold and Wayanad providing an opportunity for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to further establish her political presence.