In a resounding display of democratic fervour, the bye-election for the 71-Nuapada Assembly Constituency in Odisha concluded peacefully on November 11, 2025, achieving an impressive voter turnout of 83.45%. This marks a significant 10% increase from the previous election and positions Nuapada as the highest performer among eight simultaneous bye-elections across India.
The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Odisha, highlighted the exceptional turnout, particularly among female voters, who outnumbered their male counterparts. This trend underscores the constituency’s commitment to inclusive democracy and societal progress. The polling process was executed with meticulous planning, robust security measures, and seamless cooperation from all stakeholders, ensuring a transparent and incident-free day.
Gratitude was extended to the electorate for their enthusiastic participation, which strengthened the democratic fabric. Polling personnel, security forces, and election officials were commended for their dedication and professionalism, often under challenging conditions. Media representatives also received appreciation for their balanced coverage, which fostered an informed and calm environment.
Even in sensitive Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected areas, including eight polling stations in Sunabeda, voting proceeded without disruption. Enhanced security, including helicopter surveillance and specialised forces, ensured safety, with no untoward incidents reported. This success reflects the effective coordination between civil and police administrations.
Addressing isolated concerns, the CEO’s office clarified an allegation of voter impersonation involving Smt. Jayanti Chatria. Field verification confirmed the claim was unfounded, as Chatria herself had voted, reaffirming the process’s integrity.
In upholding electoral standards, two presiding officers—Shri Dhananjay Mallik at Polling Station No. 36 (Govt. Upper Primary School, Kuliabandha) and Shri Sandeep Swain at Polling Station No. 46 (Biromal, Govt. Upgraded High School)—were suspended for violating vote secrecy. Disciplinary proceedings are underway per the Election Commission of India guidelines, emphasising accountability.
Technical glitches were minimal and swiftly resolved: two full EVM sets were replaced at Polling Stations 80 and 246, and one VVPAT unit at Station 298, without interrupting voting.
A complaint about a colour voter list at Booth No. 11 led to the seizure of such lists from two individuals outside the booth, preventing further use. Another allegation of voting mismatch at Polling Station No. 250 was investigated and dismissed as baseless, with all records in order.
Post-polling, EVMs and VVPATs were securely transported to a strong room under three-tier security, CCTV surveillance, and party representatives’ oversight. The entire process was videographed for transparency.
Vote counting is scheduled for November 14, 2025, with comprehensive arrangements including observer deployment and real-time updates to ensure a smooth, fair process.
The CEO’s office hailed the bye-election as a model of efficiency and public engagement, thanking all involved for their contributions to Odisha’s democratic legacy.
