Bye-election Schedule Announced for Five Assembly Constituencies in Gujarat and Kerala
The Election Commission has announced bye-elections to fill vacant seats in several Assembly Constituencies across Gujarat, Kerala, Punjab, and West Bengal. These elections are necessitated by the passing or resignation of sitting members. The Commission has outlined the schedule for the bye-elections, emphasizing the importance of updated electoral rolls and the use of electronic voting machines to ensure a smooth electoral process.
Details of Vacancies
The bye-elections will take place in four states, each with specific reasons for the vacancies. In Gujarat, the constituencies affected are 24-Kadi (SC) due to the death of Shri Karsanbhai Punjabhai Solanki and 87-Visavadar following the resignation of Shri Bhayani Bhupendrabhai Gandubhai. Kerala’s 35-Nilambur constituency will also hold a bye-election due to the resignation of Shri P. V. Anvar. In Punjab, the 64-Ludhiana West seat is vacant following the death of Shri Gurpreet Bassi Gogi. Lastly, West Bengal’s 80-Kaliganj constituency will see a bye-election due to the passing of Shri Nasiruddin Ahamed.
Electoral Roll Updates
The Election Commission has reiterated its commitment to maintaining accurate and updated electoral rolls, which are crucial for conducting free and fair elections. Following amendments to the Representation of the People Act, there are now four qualifying dates each year for voter registration. The Commission has recently completed a Special Summary Revision of the electoral rolls, using April 1, 2025, as the reference date for eligibility. The final publication of the electoral roll occurred on May 5, 2025. Continuous updates will be made until the last date for filing nominations, ensuring that all eligible citizens can participate in the electoral process.
Voting Technology and Voter Identification
For the upcoming bye-elections, the Commission will utilize Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) at all polling stations. This decision aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the voting process. Voter identification will primarily rely on the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC), but several alternative documents will also be accepted, including Aadhar cards, bank passbooks, and driving licenses, among others. This approach is designed to facilitate voter participation and ensure that all eligible voters can cast their ballots without unnecessary obstacles.
Campaign Regulations and Candidate Transparency
The Model Code of Conduct will be enforced immediately in the districts where the bye-elections will occur. This code aims to ensure a level playing field for all candidates and political parties. Additionally, candidates with criminal backgrounds are required to disclose this information publicly during their campaigns. Political parties must also provide details about the criminal histories of their candidates on their websites and through media channels. This initiative is part of the Election Commission’s efforts to promote transparency and inform voters about the candidates contesting in the elections.
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