Nuapada: The political battleground in Nuapada is set for a high-stakes by-election on November 11, with 14 candidates officially remaining in the contest following the final day for the withdrawal of nominations today.
The election, necessitated by the death of the sitting MLA, is shaping up to be a compelling three-cornered fight between the state's major political players: the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and the Indian National Congress (INC).
After the scrutiny of nomination papers, out of the initial 19 candidates who filed their papers, five were rejected. The final number of candidates now stands at 14.
The three main contenders have intensified their campaigns, with candidates and senior party leaders dedicating day and night to attract voters.
BJP has fielded Jay Dholakia, who is already benefiting from the on-ground presence of numerous state ministers campaigning on his behalf.
BJD is relying on Snehangini Chhuria, a former minister and seasoned leader, to retain the seat.
Congress is being represented by Ghasiram Majhi, who has been seen campaigning extensively from street to street.
All three candidates have been actively engaging in door-to-door campaigning in the final two weeks leading up to the poll date.
The by-election has become a prestige battle, drawing the attention of the state's top leadership:
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi is scheduled to campaign for the BJP candidate.
Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will be hitting the campaign trail for the BJD nominee.
For the Congress, the list of star campaigners includes national leaders like Sachin Pilot, Kanhaiya Kumar, and Revanth Reddy, though their exact campaign schedule remains unconfirmed.
The votes for the Nuapada by-election will be counted on November 14.