The Election Commission of India (ECI) today unveiled the schedule for the by-election to the Nuapada Assembly constituency in Odisha, setting the stage for a crucial poll in the tribal-dominated region.
The bypoll has been necessitated following the untimely death of sitting Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Rajendra Dholakia on September 8, 2025, due to kidney-related ailments at the age of 68.
According to the ECI’s announcement, the polling for the Nuapada seat will take place on November 11, 2025, coinciding with the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. The counting of votes is slated for November 14, 2025, promising a swift resolution to the electoral contest.
Key dates include the issuance of the gazette notification on October 13, 2025, the last date for filing nominations on October 20, 2025, scrutiny of nominations on October 22, 2025, and the withdrawal of candidatures by October 24, 2025.
This by-election is part of a broader set of byelections announced for eight assembly constituencies across seven states, including seats in Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Punjab, and Telangana.
The synchronisation with Bihar’s two-phase elections on November 6 and 11 is expected to optimise logistical arrangements for the poll body.
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Rajendra Dholakia, a senior BJD leader and former minister, had won the Nuapada seat in the 2024 Odisha Assembly elections with a commanding 52% vote share, making it a stronghold for the party. newindianexpress.com His passing has left a void in the constituency, which is known for its significant tribal population and agricultural economy. Political parties, including the BJD, BJP, and Congress, have already begun preparations, with candidate announcements anticipated soon. youtube.com The ECI has also finalised the electoral roll for Nuapada, with the final publication scheduled for October 9, 2025, to ensure a smooth voting process.
This bypoll could serve as a litmus test for the ruling BJP in Odisha and the opposition BJD, amid shifting political dynamics in the state. Stay tuned for more updates as parties gear up for what promises to be a closely watched electoral battle.
