The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the Rajya Sabha by-election in Odisha, with polling slated to be held on June 18.

The bypoll has become necessary following the resignation of Debashish Samantaray from the Upper House.

Samantaray resigned from the Rajya Sabha after quitting the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leading to the vacancy of the seat.

Notification to Be Issued on June 1

According to the schedule released by the Election Commission, the official notification for the by-election will be issued on June 1.

June 8 has been fixed as the last date for filing nominations for the Rajya Sabha seat.

Scrutiny of nomination papers and subsequent election formalities will be conducted as per the schedule notified by the Commission.

Polling and Counting on Same Day

Polling for the vacant Rajya Sabha seat will take place on June 18 between 9 AM and 5 PM.

Officials stated that counting of votes and declaration of results will also be carried out on the same day.

The entire election process, including all related formalities, is expected to be completed by June 20.

Political Activity Intensifies in Odisha

The announcement of the by-election has triggered fresh political activity in Odisha, with major political parties expected to begin discussions over potential candidates for the vacant seat.

The bypoll is being closely watched as it comes amid changing political equations in the state following Debashish Samantaray’s switch from the BJD to the BJP.

Political observers believe the election may also reflect the current strength and strategic priorities of major parties in Odisha ahead of future political contests.

Focus Shifts to Candidate Selection

With the election schedule now officially announced, attention has turned towards the possible candidates likely to be fielded by the ruling and opposition parties.

Both the BJP and the BJD are expected to hold internal consultations before finalising their nominees for the Upper House seat.