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Nagaon Lok Sabha By-Election Scheduled for October 6

The Election Commission of India has set the date for the Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election, with polling scheduled for October 6 and vote counting on October 9. Political parties, particularly the BJP, are ramping up their preparations, focusing on retaining their previous victories in key segments. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the importance of improving vote shares in other areas while acknowledging the challenges ahead. Amidst this, a controversy involving a former district commissioner has emerged, adding another layer of complexity to the electoral landscape. As the election date approaches, the political atmosphere in Nagaon is charged with anticipation and strategy.
 

Election Commission Announces By-Election Dates

Picture used for representational purpose only. (Photo: PTI)

Guwahati, Sept 7: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has revealed the timeline for the upcoming Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election, set for October 6, with vote counting scheduled for October 9.

As per the official notification, candidates must submit their nominations by September 16, with scrutiny occurring on September 17. The deadline for withdrawal of nominations is September 19, and the entire election process is expected to conclude by October 11.

This announcement comes as political parties ramp up their preparations for the electoral contest.

During a press briefing after the State Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that the BJP aims to maintain its stronghold in the Assembly segments of the Lok Sabha constituency where it has previously excelled.

“The Nagaon constituency has a significant minority population of 3.5 lakh. It is divided into two sections. The BJP has previously secured victories in Nagaon, Jagiroad, Morigaon, and Raha, while Congress and opposition alliance candidates won in Samaguri, Dhing, Rupahihat, and Lahorighat,” Sarma explained.

He emphasized that the BJP's immediate goal is to preserve its lead in the four segments while also boosting its vote share in the other areas.

“Our primary focus will be to retain our victories in the four segments where we have previously succeeded. The BJP will approach this election with a clear objective of improving our vote count in the remaining four segments,” he added.

However, Sarma warned against assuming that Nagaon is a traditional BJP stronghold. “I will refrain from discussing potential losses or victories, as we lost by 2.5 lakh votes last time. Campaigns will be conducted, and the electorate will decide based on their preferences,” he remarked.

“This is not inherently a BJP seat, as we have not historically won it in MLA or MP elections. Nonetheless, past losses do not guarantee future defeats,” the Chief Minister noted.

Earlier, Assam BJP president Dilip Saikia mentioned that the party has initiated preparations throughout the constituency.

“I participated in a vital strategy meeting for the Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election. We developed plans to energize BJP Assam across eight Assembly segments, 25 Mandals, and 2,306 booths, emphasizing strong grassroots connections. Our goal is to fortify our booths and earn the people's support,” Saikia shared on social media.

The preparations for the by-election are also taking place amid controversy surrounding former Nagaon District Commissioner and District Election Officer Devasish Sharma, who is rumored to be joining the BJP and has been speculated as a potential candidate for the by-election.

The ECI has lodged a formal complaint against Sharma following allegations of administrative misconduct and concerns regarding his political aspirations ahead of the bypoll.

The Nagaon Lok Sabha seat became vacant after former MP Pradyut Borodoloi resigned and joined the BJP in anticipation of the 2026 Assembly elections.