Kozhikode: Navya Haridas, the BJP candidate contesting in the Wayanad by-election, has expressed confidence in her chances against Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi.

Speaking confidently about her candidacy, Navya Haridas stated, "My opponent is Priyanka Gandhi, and all I can say is Congress will be facing tough competition in Wayanad. Rahul Gandhi has given up his seat in Wayanad to retain his seat in Raebareli. When the people of Wayanad faced landslides, they did not have a representative to raise their issues in Parliament. If Priyanka Gandhi is elected, the situation will be no different."

Haridas emphasized the lack of attention Wayanad has received over the past five years, citing that Rahul Gandhi's infrequent visits have left pressing local issues unaddressed.

Gandhi is contesting against Navya Haridas, a candidate fielded by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Left Democratic Front's (LDF) candidate Sathyan Mokeri. Haridas is a two-time Kozhikode Corporation councillor.

Who is Navya Haridas?

Navya, who serves as the state general secretary of the Mahila Morcha, has garnered attention for her impressive track record. Her journey in politics began in earnest in 2015, and she quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first election in the Kozhikode Corporation by a narrow margin of 129 votes. Since then, she has become a prominent figure, known for her sincerity and commitment to corruption-free governance.

In the 2020 elections, Navya was highlighted as a potential mayor candidate and made history by winning in a general category ward, surprising party leaders with a victory margin of 479 votes. Her dedication to grassroots development and her ability to engage with constituents have made her a respected voice in the party, particularly in a corporation where the BJP holds just seven seats.

Priyanka Gandhi to file nomination for Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll today

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi will file her nomination for the Wayanad Lok Sabha by-poll in Kerala on Wednesday, marking her electoral debut.

Priyanka Gandhi will file the nomination papers in the presence of her mother and Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, her brother and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal and a host of other leaders.