New Delhi, July 6: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday issued notifications for bye-elections to three Legislative Assembly constituencies in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Bihar, formally commencing the process of filing nominations.
The bye-elections will be held for 22-Datia (Madhya Pradesh), 145-Manjalpur (Gujarat) and 182-Bankipur (Bihar).
According to the schedule announced by the Commission, the last date for filing nominations is July 13, while scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on July 14. Candidates may withdraw their nominations until July 16.
Polling, if required, will be held on July 30 from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while the counting of votes is scheduled for August 3 from 8:00 a.m. The entire election process will be completed by August 4.
The Commission has also directed the concerned state governments to ensure strict compliance with statutory provisions relating to paid holidays and dry days in the poll-bound constituencies.
Under Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, all eligible voters employed in businesses, industrial establishments or other workplaces—including daily wage and casual workers—must be granted a paid holiday on polling day without any deduction in wages. The provision also extends to voters employed outside their constituency but registered as electors in the constituency going to polls. Employers violating these provisions are liable to penalties.
The Commission further said that, under Section 135C of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the sale, distribution or serving of liquor will be prohibited during the 48-hour period preceding the close of polling in the concerned constituencies. Dry days will also be observed on the counting day, August 3, 2026, in accordance with the relevant state laws. (PIB)
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