Nuapada, Nov 11: Polling for the Nuapada Assembly by-election is underway, marking a crucial electoral battle in Odisha.

The voting process began at 7 am across 358 polling booths and will continue until 5 pm, except in eight highly sensitive booths in Maoist-affected Sunabeda, where voting will conclude by 4 pm.

A total of 2,53,624 voters are eligible to cast their votes, including 1,24,108 male, 1,29,495 female, and 21 third-gender voters. Among them, 1,786 are senior citizens above 85 years, 9,429 are young voters, and 3,988 are persons with disabilities. Special arrangements, including pink booths and dedicated facilities for senior citizens and differently-abled voters, have been made to ensure inclusive participation.

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The bypoll has drawn significant attention due to a three-way contest between the ruling BJP, opposition BJD, and Congress. BJP has fielded Jay Dholakia, son of former MLA Rajendra Dholakia, while BJD’s candidate is Snehangini Chhuria and Congress has nominated Ghasiram Majhi. In total, 11 candidates are contesting.

Polling officials have reached their designated locations, and the Election Commission has implemented extensive security measures. Paramilitary forces have been deployed, and polling staff for the sensitive booths in Sunabeda were airlifted via Indian Air Force helicopters to ensure safe conduct.

The outcome of this bypoll is expected to have a significant impact on the political dynamics of the region. With high voter enthusiasm and tight security, the Nuapada by-election is being closely watched by political observers and parties alike.