Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik urged the Election Commission of India to take swift action against Model Code of Conduct violations in the Nuapada bypoll.
He highlighted that serious breaches occurred during the legally mandated 36-hour silence period before polling. According to Patnaik, BJP ministers and leaders from outside Nuapada continued to move freely across the constituency, attempting to influence voters despite ECI guidelines.
The hallmark of a true democracy lies in the conduct of free and fair elections. However, it has come to our notice that in #Nuapada, serious violations are taking place during the legally mandated silence period — 36 hours before polling.
As per the Election Commission’s…
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 10, 2025
Furthermore, Patnaik expressed concern over the detention of local BJD leaders who opposed these activities. He alleged that the district administration and police acted in a partisan manner, favoring the ruling party and compromising electoral neutrality.
In his formal appeal, Patnaik called on the ECI to strictly enforce the silence period. He demanded that external BJP leaders vacate the constituency and urged the Commission to instruct local officials to maintain impartiality. Additionally, he requested close monitoring of sensitive booths flagged by opposition parties to prevent manipulation.
Patnaik emphasized that democracy thrives on free and fair elections. He warned that continued violations would erode public trust and damage the credibility of the Nuapada bypoll.
As the polling day draws near, the Nuapada bypoll violations have ignited intense political debate. Citizens and parties alike now await the Election Commission’s response to these serious allegations.
REALATED STORY: Odisha CEO Refutes EVM Shifting Allegations in Nuapada Bypoll
