Daijiworld Media Network - Wayanad
Wayanad, Sep 18: Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), accusing it of colluding to weaken the country’s democratic process. Her remarks came during her visit to Wayanad, where she has been touring since September 11.
Speaking from Nilambur, Priyanka echoed her brother Rahul Gandhi’s recent allegations about voter roll tampering, stating, “We all need to fight for democracy. We need to fight for the Constitution, we need to fight for our country.”
She accused the Election Commission of failing in its constitutional duty to safeguard electoral integrity, claiming it was “colluding to weaken the electoral process.”
Her comments align with the Congress party’s broader national narrative of “saving democracy” and defending institutions that they say are being systematically eroded under the current government.
Ground Connect: Tribals, Workers, and Infrastructure
While her statements made headlines, Priyanka Gandhi’s Wayanad tour also had a strong grassroots focus. She trekked into the Karulai forests to meet the Cholanaykkar tribe, one of Kerala’s most marginalised communities. She listened to their issues regarding land rights, welfare access, and livelihood support — assuring them she would take their concerns to the appropriate authorities.
Later in the day, she visited the Nilambur teak depot, where she interacted with forest workers and reviewed depot operations. She also stopped by the Nilambur Railway Station to inspect the progress of local infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity across the region.
At each stop, she underlined the Congress's commitment to inclusive growth and emphasised how critical transportation and employment infrastructure are to regional prosperity.
Political Implications and Local Impact
Priyanka’s presence has energised Congress workers in Wayanad, a seat that gained national prominence when Rahul Gandhi represented it from 2019 to 2024. Local leaders view her visit as a balancing act — addressing constituency issues while reinforcing her national stance on constitutional governance.
Her engagements also come amid criticism from CPI(M) and BJP leaders, who have previously accused both Gandhis of treating Wayanad as a political stopover. Rahul Gandhi was frequently dubbed a "Tourist MP" during his tenure.
In contrast, Congress leaders say Priyanka’s 10-day visit is an assertive reply to those criticisms — combining constituency outreach with a clear political message against what the party views as the erosion of electoral and democratic norms.
As national attention builds ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, her activities in Wayanad suggest a growing political role, not just as a supporter of her brother, but as a frontline voice for the Congress party.