Bye-Election Schedule For 5 Assembly Constituencies Including Nilambur Announced
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for bye-elections in five Assembly constituencies across four states — Gujarat, Kerala, Punjab, and West Bengal. The polling will take place on 19th June 2025, with counting scheduled for 23rd June 2025.
The bye-elections are being conducted to fill vacancies arising from a combination of resignations and unfortunate demises of sitting MLAs. Among the seats going to the polls is the Nilambur constituency in Kerala, which fell vacant following the resignation of P.V. Anvar.
In Gujarat, two constituencies will see by-polls: Kadi (SC), following the death of Karsanbhai Punjabhai Solanki, and Visavadar, after the resignation of Bhupendrabhai Gandubhai Bhayani. Punjab’s Ludhiana West constituency is also part of this round, necessitated by the passing of Gurpreet Bassi Gogi. Meanwhile, in West Bengal, the Kaliganj seat was vacated after the death of Nasiruddin Ahamed.
According to the detailed schedule issued by the Election Commission, the Gazette notification will be released on 26th May. The last date for filing nominations is 2nd June, and scrutiny will take place on 3rd June. Candidates will have until 5th June to withdraw their nominations.
The poll will be held on Thursday, 19th June 2025, and the votes will be counted on Monday, 23rd June. The entire process is to be completed before 25th June.
The Commission has reiterated its commitment to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. In line with this, it has placed special emphasis on maintaining accurate and updated electoral rolls. Following amendments made to the Representation of the People Act, 1950, through the Election Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021, the Commission now allows four qualifying dates each year for voter registration.
A special summary revision was conducted with reference to 1st April 2025 as the qualifying date, to allow eligible citizens to enrol in time for the bye-elections.
With key seats such as Nilambur and Ludhiana West in the fray, the results of these bye-elections may carry regional political significance especially in Kerala as the departure of Anvar from the LDF fold has opened a Pandora’s box with allegations and counter allegations, and will be closely watched by both state and national parties.
