The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially announced the schedule for the Rajya Sabha by-election from Odisha following the resignation of former member Debashish Samantaray. The bypoll will be held on June 18, 2026, to fill the vacant seat in the Council of States.
According to the official press note issued by the Election Commission on May 27, 2026, the vacancy arose after Debashish Samantaray resigned from the Rajya Sabha on May 25, 2026. His term was originally scheduled to continue until April 3, 2030.
Odisha Rajya Sabha Bypoll 2026: Full Election Schedule
The Election Commission has released a detailed timeline for the by-election process:
- Issue of Notification: June 1, 2026 (Monday)
- Last Date for Filing Nominations: June 8, 2026 (Monday)
- Scrutiny of Nominations: June 9, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Last Date for Withdrawal of Candidature: June 11, 2026 (Thursday)
- Date of Poll: June 18, 2026 (Thursday)
- Polling Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Counting of Votes: June 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM
- Election Process Completion Deadline: June 20, 2026 (Saturday)
Election Commission Issues Strict Voting Guidelines
The ECI stated that only integrated violet-colour sketch pens supplied by the Returning Officer will be allowed for marking preferences on ballot papers during the Rajya Sabha bypoll.
The Commission also confirmed that election observers will closely monitor the entire process to ensure free and fair voting in Odisha.
Political Importance of Odisha Rajya Sabha Seat
The Odisha Rajya Sabha by-election has triggered political discussions across the state, as major parties are expected to begin candidate selection and strategy planning soon.
The vacant Rajya Sabha seat carries importance because the elected member will serve the remaining term until April 2030. Political observers believe the election could become significant in the current political landscape of Odisha.
What Triggered the Odisha Rajya Sabha Bypoll?
The by-election became necessary after Debashish Samantaray submitted his resignation from the Rajya Sabha on May 25, 2026. The Election Commission acted swiftly to announce the election schedule and initiate the constitutional process to fill the vacancy.
With nominations opening from June 1, political activity in Odisha is expected to intensify over the coming days.
