Table of Contents
As the results for the 2024 by-elections are unfolding, several states are witnessing significant political shifts. The counting of votes for the bypolls to 46 Assembly seats in 13 states and two Lok Sabha seats (in Maharashtra’s Nanded and Kerala’s Wayanad) has drawn considerable attention. Here’s an update on some of the most crucial constituencies.
Kerala – Wayanad Bypoll: Priyanka Gandhi’s Landslide Victory
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in her electoral debut, is on track to secure a monumental win from Kerala’s Wayanad Lok Sabha seat. As the counting progresses, her lead has crossed 3.7 lakh votes, surpassing the victory margin of her brother, Rahul Gandhi, in the 2024 general elections (3.6 lakh votes). The Congress camp is buoyant, as Priyanka’s lead has steadily grown throughout the day. The victory is seen as a major political development in Kerala and reinforces the Congress’ foothold in the state, particularly in the context of strong opposition from BJP and Left factions.
Kerala – Palakkad Bypoll: Rahul Mamkootathil Defeats BJP’s C. Krishnakumar
In the Palakkad constituency, Congress’ Rahul Mamkootathil has emerged victorious, defeating BJP’s C. Krishnakumar by a significant margin. This result strengthens the Congress position in Kerala, with the party consolidating its hold in the southern state’s political landscape.
Uttar Pradesh – By-elections: BJP’s Dominance in Multiple Seats
In Uttar Pradesh, the by-elections saw competitive races in several constituencies. BJP continues to retain its stronghold in crucial areas, with significant victories in several regions. The party’s candidates have performed well, particularly in areas that had previously been contested by opposition parties. As the votes were counted, the BJP emerged victorious in multiple Assembly constituencies, demonstrating its sustained popularity in the state.
Bihar – By-elections: Mixed Results
Bihar has witnessed an intriguing political contest with mixed results. One of the noteworthy developments was the victory of Jitan Ram Manjhi’s daughter-in-law, Deepa Kumari, who secured the Imamganj Assembly seat for the Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM). This marks a strategic win for the HAM in Bihar’s evolving political landscape, especially as the party continues to challenge the dominance of bigger players like RJD and JD(U).
Additionally, JD(U)’s Manorama Devi won the Belaganj Assembly seat, defeating the RJD candidate Vishwanath Kumar Singh. This indicates JD(U)’s continuing influence in Bihar politics, although there is growing competition from the opposition.
Karnataka – Congress Sweeps Bypolls
In Karnataka, the ruling Congress party has secured a clean sweep in all three contested Assembly seats: Sandur, Shiggaon, and Channapatna. Congress candidates maintained a consistent lead throughout the day, overcoming competition from the BJP and JD(S). The win in Channapatna was particularly significant, as it saw Congress defeating JD(S)’ Nikhil Kumaraswamy (son of former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy). Congress’ Yogeeshwara clinched the seat with a margin of over 25,000 votes, demonstrating the party’s strong influence in the region.
6. West Bengal – TMC’s Impressive Show
In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) had an impressive performance, securing three wins in key Assembly constituencies including Naihati, Haroa, and Sitai. In Sitai, TMC’s Sangita Roy won by a substantial margin of over 1.3 lakh votes. In the Madarihat seat, traditionally a BJP stronghold, TMC’s Jayprakash Toppo wrested control with a victory margin of more than 28,000 votes. TMC’s strong performance indicates its continued dominance in Bengal, despite the political challenges posed by opposition parties.
7. Punjab – AAP Emerges Victorious
In Punjab, AAP candidates emerged victorious in several key constituencies, including the Chabbewal Assembly seat. This victory strengthens AAP’s presence in Punjab, which has seen a shift toward AAP in recent years, especially after their 2022 state election win.
8. Meghalaya – Chief Minister’s Family Wins Gambegre
In Meghalaya, a significant development came with the victory of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s wife, Mehtab Chandee A. Sangma, who won the Gambegre constituency. This win is seen as a major political endorsement for the current government, reinforcing the Sangma family’s political grip in the state.
9. Gujarat – BJP Continues Stronghold
In Gujarat, BJP’s Thakor Swarupji Sardarji secured a victory in Vav constituency, consolidating the party’s strong position in the state. The bypoll results continue to reflect BJP’s dominance, especially after their sweeping victory in the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections.
Conclusion
The 2024 bypoll results reflect a diverse political landscape, with Congress making significant gains in Kerala and Karnataka, while BJP continues to retain its strength in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Gujarat. TMC has asserted its dominance in West Bengal, while AAP makes its presence felt in Punjab. These bypolls have not only highlighted individual victories but also set the stage for the upcoming electoral challenges across India.