Thiruvananthapuram: Rahul Gandhi’s decision to also contest the Raebareli Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh alongside Wayanad stirred diverse reactions among the people of Wayanad, Kerala.

During the elections held on April 26 for the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, opinions varied regarding Gandhi’s dual candidacy. While some voiced support, stating it was within his rights, others criticized the move.

At a local shop in Wayanad, one individual defended Gandhi’s decision, citing his leadership in the national sphere. “Being a key figure in the INDIA bloc, it’s understandable,” they remarked. Conversely, another expressed concern, suggesting that if Gandhi were to win both seats, vacating Wayanad might not sit well with constituents. “Let’s reserve judgment until then,” they added.

However, PK Kunhalikutty, a seasoned leader of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), endorsed Gandhi’s decision. “There’s no issue with him contesting from Raebareli as well,” he affirmed, highlighting the IUML’s request for Gandhi to contest from an additional constituency, akin to Prime Minister Modi’s past dual candidacy.

In the 2019 elections, Rahul Gandhi clinched victory in Wayanad but faced defeat in the Amethi constituency of Uttar Pradesh. This time around, his opponents in Wayanad included CPI leader Annie Raja and state BJP president K. Surendran.

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