Odisha Rajya Sabha Bypoll Scheduled for June 18 After Samantaray’s Resignation
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the upcoming Rajya Sabha by-election in Odisha, following the resignation of Debashish Samantaray on May 25, 2026.
The bypoll will be held on June 18 to fill the vacant seat, which carries a tenure until April 2030.
According to the notification, the last date for filing nominations is June 8, with scrutiny on June 9 and withdrawal permitted until June 11.
Polling will take place on June 18 between 9 AM and 4 PM, followed by counting at 5 PM the same day.
The entire process will be completed by June 20.
The ECI has directed that only violet-coloured sketch pens supplied by the Returning Officer be used for marking ballot papers.
Election observers will oversee the process to ensure transparency and fairness.
This by-election holds political significance as the elected member will serve a full term until 2030, making candidate selection crucial for parties in Odisha.
