Nuapada, Nov 13: The much-awaited results of the Nuapada by-election will be announced on Friday, with counting scheduled to begin tomorrow morning under a strict three-tier security ring. The counting centre has been fortified to ensure smooth conduct of the process, reflecting the high stakes of this electoral battle, officials said on Thursday.

According to official sources, the postal ballots will be counted first, followed by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from 8:30 AM. The process will be carried out across 14 tables in 26 rounds, each supervised by a counting supervisor, assistant, and micro-observer. Candidate agents are expected to arrive by 6 AM to oversee the proceedings and ensure transparency.

Political Stakes High

The contest has intensified among three key candidates — BJP’s Jay Dholakia, BJD candidate Snehangini Chhuria, and Congress nominee Ghasiram Majhi. The ruling BJP has predicted a victory margin of 30,000 to 50,000 votes, while the BJD is confident of winning by 10,000 votes and Congress by 5,000 votes.

Record Voter Turnout
The by-election witnessed a massive voter turnout of 83.45 percent, underscoring the electorate’s enthusiasm. Political observers note that this bypoll is the first acid test for Odisha’s three major parties after the 2024 general elections, with the outcome expected to send strong signals for the state’s political landscape.

War of Words

The campaign has been marked by sharp exchanges. The Opposition BJD has alleged booth rigging after earlier raising concerns about EVMs, while the BJP dismissed the charges as fear-driven tactics. Congress leaders, meanwhile, expressed confidence in their grassroots support base.

Administration Preparedness

District Collector Madhusudan Das and SP Amrit Pal Singh confirmed extensive security and logistical arrangements for the counting process. Forces have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents, ensuring fairness and peace.

As Odisha awaits the verdict, analysts believe the Nuapada result could reshape the political strategies and organizational strength of three major parties in the state.