The Election Commission of India announced biennial Rajya Sabha elections across ten states, covering 37 seats, with polling set for March 16, 2026.
The notification will be issued on February 26, and candidates must file nominations by March 5. Scrutiny will take place on March 6, while March 9 marks the final date for withdrawal of nominations. Voting will occur from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, followed by counting at 5:00 pm the same day.
Odisha will see elections for four seats as the terms of Mamata Mohanty, Munna Khan, Sujit Kumar, and Niranjan Bishi conclude on April 2. Their departure opens the stage for new representatives to enter the Council of States.
The Election Commission emphasised strict adherence to guidelines, including the use of violet sketch pens provided by returning officers for marking preferences. Observers will oversee the process to ensure transparency and fairness.
This round of biennial elections holds significance as it reshapes representation from ten states in the upper house of Parliament. Odisha’s four vacancies add weight to the political dynamics, with parties preparing strategies to secure their share of influence.
The completion deadline for the elections is March 20, ensuring that the new members are in place before the outgoing terms expire. The upcoming contest will determine the balance of voices in the Rajya Sabha and set the tone for legislative debates in the months ahead.
