NEW DELHI: Campaigning for the impending Wayanad by-election, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra blasted the BJP on Monday for “politicizing” the devastating landslides that struck Wayanad in July. Speaking at a rally in Kenichira, Vadra charged that the ruling BJP was ignoring urgent local problems and not giving enough aid to the families impacted by the tragedy, which took more than 200 lives.
Speaking to a crowd in the Sulthan Bathery constituency, Priyanka pledged to support the needs of Wayanad’s citizens in Parliament if elected. “The BJP has politicized even a tragedy that caused great anguish. At this crucial juncture, citizens need to choose whether they want politics that solve pressing issues or one that diverts attention, she said. Vadra urged voters to support her in the by-election, stressing her dedication to putting the interests of the district ahead of political agendas.
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Heavy monsoon rains caused the landslides, which devastated the environmentally delicate area and left hundreds of residents without a place to live. Despite continuous efforts by local governments, Priyanka asserted that central help has been inadequate and delayed. “I will make sure your opinions are heard if you allow me to represent you in Parliament,” she declared, adding that she would hold the federal and state administrations responsible.
Vadra continued by criticizing the BJP’s strategy, saying it was more focused on generating “divisiveness and distraction” than it was on tackling fundamental problems like unemployment and growing costs. By diverting attention from pressing problems that people deal with daily, the BJP hopes to hold onto power. Instead of dividing people, this government ought to be trying to uplift them,” she said.
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The Congress leader praised Kerala’s local leadership for acting decisively and cited a recent unanimous resolution passed by the state assembly urging the federal government to expedite relief for Wayanad. Vadra maintained that she would prioritize job creation, economic growth, and Wayanad relief if elected.
It is anticipated that Priyanka Gandhi will stay in Wayanad until November 7 to interact with locals and solve their issues as part of her ongoing campaign. Rahul Gandhi left the Wayanad seat to concentrate on his Raebareli constituency, prompting the calling of a by-election.