Priyanka’s Parliamentary debut: A new chapter for Congress

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has officially entered Parliament, making her debut as the Lok Sabha MP from Kerala’s Wayanad. On Thursday morning, she took the oath of office in a memorable ceremony that seemed to perfectly encapsulate her political persona—poised, rooted, and purposeful. Dressed in a traditional kasavu saree and holding a red-bound copy of the Constitution, she stepped into a role her brother, Rahul Gandhi, held before her. Her choice to carry the Constitution wasn’t just symbolic; it underscored a clear message. Much like her brother did during his tenure, Priyanka is highlighting the Congress’ stance against what they claim are attempts by the BJP to undermine the principles enshrined in the document.

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The atmosphere in the Lok Sabha was electric. Supporters welcomed her with chants of “Bharat Jodo” as she took her oath. “I am very happy today,” Priyanka said, her voice carrying the weight of her new responsibility. It was a bittersweet moment for Congress loyalists, as her swearing-in ceremony was followed by a swift adjournment of the House amidst protests over issues like violence in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district.

Her journey to this moment has been remarkable. Winning her first-ever election with a landslide majority, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra secured over 6.22 lakh votes in Wayanad. She defeated Sathyan Mokeri of the Communist Party of India by more than four lakh votes and left the BJP’s Navya Haridas trailing by over 5.12 lakh votes. This overwhelming victory is not just a personal milestone but a significant boost for the Congress party, especially in Kerala, where it continues to have a strong presence.

On social media platform X, Priyanka shared a heartfelt message for her constituents. “My dearest sisters and brothers of Wayanad, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me. I will make sure that over time, you truly feel this victory has been your victory. The person you chose to represent you understands your hopes and dreams and will fight for you as one of your own,” she wrote. She also thanked her family for their unwavering support—her mother Sonia Gandhi, brother Rahul Gandhi, husband Robert Vadra, and her children—all of whom stood by her during her campaign.

Rahul and Sonia Gandhi, in particular, played a pivotal role in her election effort. They campaigned extensively in Wayanad, highlighting her leadership skills and her vision for the constituency. Rahul Gandhi even threw her a challenge during the campaign: to transform Wayanad into Kerala’s top tourist destination. “When people think of Kerala, the first destination should be Wayanad,” he said, emphasising the economic benefits this would bring to the region.

Priyanka’s entry into Parliament comes at a critical juncture for the Congress and the opposition INDIA bloc. Both have faced challenges in convincing voters that they can provide a credible alternative to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP. Her presence in the Lok Sabha is expected to reinvigorate the Congress’ strategy, particularly in the southern states and among women voters, a demographic the party is eager to win over.

This is not just a victory for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra but also a moment of rejuvenation for her party. The Congress, which has often been criticised for its lack of fresh faces, now has another prominent Gandhi in its ranks. With Sonia Gandhi in the Rajya Sabha and Rahul Gandhi representing Raebareli, Priyanka’s arrival in Parliament solidifies the family’s continued influence in Indian politics.

Priyanka Gandhi debut is more than just an electoral success; it is a promise. A promise to the people of Wayanad, to the Congress party, and perhaps even to herself—to bring a fresh perspective, to uphold democratic principles, and to fight for the issues that matter. As she takes on this new role, all eyes will be on how she uses her platform to shape the future of the Congress and, possibly, Indian politics at large.