The result of the Nuapada Assembly by-election is hours away, with BJP candidate Jay Dholakia currently holding a dominant lead after the seventh round of counting.
As per the latest figures after the seventh round, Dholakia has amassed 36,088 votes. This substantial lead suggests the BJP is poised to add a new name to its MLA list.
The race for the second spot is tight, with the BJD facing disappointment. BJD candidate Snehangini Chhuria is currently in second place with 10,742 votes, while Congress candidate Ghaziram Majhi is close behind in third with 9,474 votes. Despite a brief slip, Chhuria regained the second position in the sixth round.
Counting is ongoing at Nuapada National College. The final result will be announced following the completion of all 26 rounds.