By-elections for eight Assembly constituencies are currently underway across six states and one Union Territory, with voting commencing at 7 am. The affected constituencies are Budgam and Nagrota (J&K), Anta (Rajasthan), Ghatsila (Jharkhand), Jubilee Hills (Telangana), Tarn Taran (Punjab), Dampa (Mizoram), and Nuapada (Odisha). Extensive security measures are in place to ensure fair and peaceful elections. In Telangana’s Jubilee Hills, BRS candidate Maganti Sunitha, whose husband was the sitting MLA, has cast her vote. This electoral contest involves over 4.01 lakh voters determining the outcome for 58 candidates, with a significant emphasis on security at numerous polling stations identified as critical. The Nuapada constituency in Odisha is also participating in polling, with distinct timings for regular and sensitive booths, particularly in Left Wing Extremist-affected regions. The vacancy here resulted from the death of a BJD MLA. Ghatsila in Jharkhand is seeing a crucial contest for over 2.56 lakh voters and 13 candidates, following the death of a JMM MLA. The Dampa Assembly by-election in Mizoram, a border constituency, is also active. Voters in Punjab’s Tarn Taran are casting their ballots to elect a new representative following the death of the AAP MLA. Similarly, Rajasthan’s Anta constituency is holding by-elections to fill a vacant seat due to a disqualification. The results of these by-elections will offer valuable insights into regional political dynamics.
