Thrissur, Kerala — The counting of votes for the Chelakkara by-election began early this morning, with early trends from the Election Commission showing CPI(M)’s UR Pradeep in the lead. As of 10 AM today, Pradeep has secured 17,509 votes, while his closest rival, Congress candidate Ramya Haridas, trails with 11,675 votes.

The by-poll in Chelakkara is crucial for both the CPI(M) and Congress, with early results pointing towards a significant lead for Pradeep.

Meanwhile, in the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is leading the race, according to early trends. As of 10 AM, Priyanka, contesting as a United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate, has gained 132,543 votes, with BJP’s Navya Haridas and Left candidate Sathyan Mokeri trailing behind.

Wayanad, a Congress stronghold, has seen a fierce triangular contest this time, with Priyanka Gandhi seeking to win the seat previously held by her brother Rahul Gandhi. Rahul had vacated the seat earlier this year after winning from Rae Bareli in the general elections. If Priyanka wins, she will become the third member of the Gandhi family to represent Wayanad in Parliament.

Despite Priyanka’s strong lead, BJP’s Navya Haridas has expressed confidence in her party’s chances, arguing that the people of Wayanad will choose development by voting for the NDA. Haridas pointed out that voter turnout had decreased in previous elections due to disillusionment, and this time, the NDA’s focus on development will sway voters in their favor.

Priyanka Gandhi, however, has strongly criticized the central government for its refusal to declare the Wayanad landslides a national disaster, as requested by the Kerala government. On social media, she labeled the government’s decision as a "shocking injustice" to the victims and slammed the denial of much-needed relief.

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