Preparations for the much-anticipated by-election in Odisha’s Nuapada Assembly Constituency (71) have officially commenced following the untimely demise of its sitting MLA, Rajendra Dholakia.
In a key step toward ensuring a transparent electoral process, the first-level verification of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) began today at the district warehouse housed within the Collector’s office premises.
The initiative marks the initial phase of readiness for the by-poll, triggered by Dholakia’s sudden passing, which has left a void in the constituency’s representation. Officials emphasised the importance of this randomisation and inspection process to uphold the integrity of the voting system.
Presiding over the event was District Collector and Chief Electoral Officer Madhusudan Dash, alongside a host of senior administrators. Key attendees included Additional Secretary and District Election Officer, EVM State Nodal Officer Pramod Kumar Sahu, Deputy Secretary Jitendra Patra, Additional District Magistrate and Additional District Election Officer Subhash Chandra Raut, Sub-Divisional Magistrate and IR O Surmi Soreng, Election Deputy Collector Sheikh Nasim, DC Hemant Puta, BDO Komna Sarveshwar Jall, and Tehsildar Nuapada Pranab Ranjan Sahu.
Adding to the proceedings were representatives from recognised political parties, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), underscoring the collaborative spirit in electoral oversight.
District authorities have assured that subsequent phases, including machine allocation and polling station setups, will follow stringent protocols in line with the Election Commission of India guidelines.
The by-election is expected to be a high-stakes contest, with parties already manoeuvring to secure the seat in this strategically important region of western Odisha.
