Election News Archives - Odisha Connect

Bihar Polls 2025: The Science Behind EVM Name Placement

OdishaConnect — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 08:29:18 +0000

The Curious Case of Candidate Order on Bihar’s EVMs

As Bihar gears up for the 2025 Assembly elections, one intriguing question often arises among voters — how is the order of candidates’ names on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) decided? Many assume that the sequence might be determined by political parties or through a random draw, but the truth lies in a far more systematic and language-based process. This linguistic logic adds a fascinating layer to India’s democratic framework.

Alphabetical Order — The Language Logic Behind EVMs

In Hindi-speaking states like Bihar, the names of candidates on EVMs are arranged according to the alphabetical order of the Hindi alphabet (Devanagari script). This means that a candidate whose name begins with ‘क’ (Ka) will appear before one whose name starts with ‘ख’ (Kha), and so on, following the traditional Hindi alphabetical sequence.

This rule-based method often influences the strategies of political parties and candidates. Some even see an advantage in how their names appear on the list — a subtle mix of linguistic tradition and electoral psychology.

Ensuring Transparency with VVPAT Integration

To enhance transparency and voter confidence, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has integrated Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems with EVMs. When a voter casts their vote, the VVPAT briefly displays a printed slip showing the chosen candidate’s details. The slip is visible for a few seconds and then securely stored inside the machine — ensuring both verification and voter privacy.

This mechanism allows election officials to audit the votes if required, strengthening public trust in the process. In a state like Bihar, with its vast voter base and crowded electoral contests, such technology ensures elections remain secure, efficient, and credible.

Merging Language and Technology for a Stronger Democracy

The combination of linguistic ordering and cutting-edge voting technology represents more than just administrative precision — it symbolizes India’s evolving democracy. As Bihar approaches the 2025 polls, this blend of tradition and innovation sets a new benchmark for fair, transparent, and accessible elections, reinforcing faith in the world’s largest democratic exercise.

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Alliance Agony: JMM’s Jolt Jolts Opposition’s Odds Against NDA Onslaught

OdishaConnect — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:15:50 +0000

In a dramatic twist just hours before the closure of key Bihar assembly nominations, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) announced its withdrawal from the Mahagathbandhan, citing alleged marginalisation in seat-sharing arrangements. JMM chief Hemant Soren claimed that the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress orchestrated a “political conspiracy,” prompting his party to vow a “befitting lesson” to the two allies.

The immediate impact of JMM’s exit is disorder in the opposition camp, potentially increasing the NDA’s prospects in the state. JMM had planned to contest six border constituencies — Chakai, Dhamdaha, Katoria, Manihari, Jamui, and Pirpainti — slated for polling on November 11, a move that had initially created a buzz before quickly fading with Monday’s withdrawal.

Allegations of Betrayal and Past Grievances

Party spokesperson Manoj Pandey accused RJD of cunning tactics and Congress of negligence, claiming that JMM was “misled and kept in the dark.” Jharkhand Tourism Minister Sudivya Kumar recalled past support extended to RJD in Bihar (2015) and Congress in Jharkhand elections (2019), criticizing the unfulfilled promises. “This humiliation demands a sharp reply; we will look into the state of relationships in Jharkhand,” he said, hinting at a possible wider split in the INDIA bloc.

Political Paradox: Minimal JMM Influence in Bihar

Ironically, JMM’s constituencies have historically had minimal impact in Bihar elections:

2020: 5 seats, 0.2% vote share (~25,000 votes)
2015: 32 seats, 0.3% vote share, no wins
2010: 41 seats, 0.6% vote share, 1 seat

Analysts suggest that JMM’s departure could prevent vote-splitting in tribal-dominated areas such as Kishanganj, Banka, and Bhagalpur, potentially benefiting the Mahagathbandhan in some regions despite the rift.

Opposition Infighting and NDA Advantage

The split has already drawn criticism and ridicule on social media. BJP’s Shehzad Poonawalla dubbed the alliance a “Gaanthbandhan,” highlighting its internal knots, while Union Minister Chirag Paswan sarcastically called the disarray a “gift” to the NDA. Political analysts note that RJD’s strategy of fielding 143 candidates, including “friendly fights” with Congress and CPI, underscores deep divisions that could divert tribal votes to Nitish Kumar’s NDA, potentially securing a third consecutive term for the alliance in Bihar.

High Stakes Ahead of Polls

With polling scheduled for November 6 and 11 and results to be announced on November 14, Bihar remains a political powder keg. While NDA leaders are already celebrating, the volatile state of opposition unity means the final outcome is uncertain, and every vote could prove decisive in the cutthroat electoral arena.

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Snehangini Chhuria’s Candid Confessions: Surprise Nomination and BJP Defector Jabs in Nuapada Bypoll Buzz

OdishaConnect — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:05:17 +0000

In a candid interview, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) candidate Snehangini Chhuria opened up about her surprise nomination for the Nuapada Assembly by-election, praising party supremo Naveen Patnaik for his strategic choice. The Padampur subdivision leader emphasized her deep-rooted connections to the constituency and addressed allegations of being an outsider, while taking a swipe at BJP’s defector candidate Jay Dholakia.

Strong Local Roots Bolster Chhuria’s Claim

Chhuria, visibly elated at the decision, described her nomination as “completely unexpected” yet a reflection of her longstanding engagement with Nuapada. She stressed, “Nuapada may be new to some, but not for me — I am part of its fabric. My mother’s village is here, and I have spent years understanding and working among its people.”

Highlighting her grassroots experience, she noted her strong rapport with Dalit and Adivasi communities, promising to champion their welfare. “I’ve observed the district for four years and built relationships that will help me act, not just witness, change,” she said.

Refuting Outsider Allegations

Addressing accusations of being a carpetbagger, Chhuria firmly stated, “It’s more than bloodline — I am no foreigner. I have the right to be on my ground.” She emphasized that her deep local ties distinguish her from candidates who enter constituencies solely for electoral gains.

Criticism of BJP’s Jay Dholakia

Chhuria did not hold back her criticism of her main rival, BJP’s Jay Dholakia, a former BJD supporter who switched allegiance recently. She said, “Jay sold out overnight, thinking only of personal gains. BJD workers stayed loyal to Naveen ji despite the treachery.” Her comments underscored the heightened personal and political stakes in the upcoming bypoll.

Caste Dynamics and Electoral Challenge

The Nuapada by-election is emerging as a complex battle shaped by caste equations and local loyalties. Chhuria’s nomination signals BJD’s effort to consolidate its home turf advantage against defectors and opposition candidates. As campaigning intensifies, all eyes are on whether her insider advantage will outweigh BJP’s outreach efforts and sway voter sentiment.

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Nuapada Bypolls: Political Chessboard Heats Up After Rajendra Dholakia’s Untimely Demise

Priya Ranjan Sahu — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 09:13:08 +0000

The sudden demise of Rajendra Dholakia, the sitting Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA from Nuapada, on 8 September due to complications following a heart transplant, has triggered a high-stakes bypoll in the constituency. Known not just as a politician but as a philanthropist, Dholakia had earned immense goodwill among the locals, making his seat a key political battleground.

Initially, the BJD was set to field his son, Jay Dholakia, banking on the family legacy to retain the seat. However, political calculations were upended when Jay Dholakia switched allegiance to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which assumed power in Odisha in 2024. The BJD, left scrambling, finally nominated former minister and Attabira MLA Snehangini Chhuria as its candidate for the bypoll.

Meanwhile, the Congress party, striving to revive its fortunes in the state, has fielded tribal leader Ghasiram Majhi – Dholakia’s principal rival in the 2024 assembly elections. That contest saw Majhi finishing second with 50,941 votes, behind Rajendra Dholakia’s 61,822 votes, while Congress heavyweight Sarat Pattanayak, who contested after denying Majhi a ticket, finished fourth. BJP’s Abhinandan Panda, son of former state BJP president Basanta Panda, was third with 44,814 votes.

On paper, Majhi appears to have a strong advantage. Jay Dholakia, despite his legacy, faces limitations in leveraging his father’s name due to his party switch, while Chhuria remains largely unfamiliar to the Nuapada electorate. Yet, electoral outcomes are rarely determined by candidate credentials alone. Ground-level organisation, party resources, and pre-election manoeuvres often tip the scales.

Speculations abound in Nuapada. Some analysts suggest that the BJD may have deliberately allowed Jay Dholakia to defect, indicating tacit coordination between the two parties. Others speculate that BJP influence and pressure played a role, given the Dholakia family’s extensive business interests.

The stakes are high for both major parties. A BJD loss would signal declining influence, despite Naveen Patnaik’s enduring popularity. For the BJP, a defeat would mark a significant setback, as ruling parties typically do not lose bypolls, especially when seeking to consolidate power. Meanwhile, Congress could gain a morale-boosting victory, reviving its organization and positioning itself as a credible alternative in Odisha politics.

As Nuapada braces for a tense electoral battle, the bypoll promises to be more than a local contest – it could reshape political narratives across Odisha.

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Odisha Chief Electoral Officer Holds Sensitization Meeting on Independent Intensive Revision

OdishaConnect — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:03:28 +0000

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, R.S. Gopalan (IAS), recently chaired a sensitization meeting on the independent intensive revision of electoral rolls. The meeting brought together key officials, including Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Laxmi Prasad Sahu, Public Relations Officer Saurabh Pradhan, and all District Information and Public Relations Officers from across the state.

Purpose and Importance of the Intensive Revision

During the meeting, CEO Gopalan emphasized the critical objectives and timely necessity of the independent intensive revision, highlighting the importance of verifying voter eligibility and countering misleading information. He stressed the role of district officials in creating awareness among the general public at the grassroots level to ensure smooth implementation.

Gopalan pointed out that over many years, the Election Commission has built a reputation for impartiality and credibility, and maintaining this requires prompt identification and correction of erroneous or misleading data.

Ensuring Accurate Electoral Rolls

A key focus of the meeting was the inclusion of only eligible voters in the electoral rolls, ensuring no ineligible names are added and that no eligible voter is omitted. The CEO confirmed that in Odisha, all necessary measures are being implemented to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the voter list.

Officer Training and Information Sharing

Deputy CEO Dr. Sahu presented detailed information through a PPT to familiarize officials with the independent intensive revision process. Additionally, he shared insights on initiatives undertaken by the Election Commission in the context of the Bihar elections, highlighting best practices and important procedural steps.

Addressing Erroneous Data

Officials were briefed on common errors such as:

Multiple deletions of the same voter name,
Incorrect booth labels,
Missing house numbers, and
Multiple registrations at a single address.

District Information and Public Relations Officers were instructed to bring accurate data to the attention of local authorities and swiftly correct any discrepancies.

Public Awareness and Outreach

The CEO’s office will continue to regularly circulate press releases and information through social and other media channels to ensure that citizens at the grassroots level are fully aware of the revision process. Officials were also encouraged to solicit creative feedback from the public to enhance the effectiveness of the program.

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Nuapada By-Election Heats Up: BJP Snatches BJD’s Heir Apparent, Sparking ‘Horse Trading’ Fury

OdishaConnect — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:47:36 +0000

The political heat in Odisha is rising ahead of the Nuapada by-election, following a dramatic defection that has shaken the local power dynamics. Jay Dholakia, son of the late BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), triggering a fierce war of words between the state’s major parties.

Vacant Seat and Unexpected Defection

The Nuapada seat fell vacant earlier this year after the passing of Rajendra Dholakia, a trusted minister in Naveen Patnaik’s cabinet. Traditionally seen as the natural successor, Jay was expected to contest for BJD. However, on October 11, he officially joined the BJP in a ceremony attended by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other top leaders, leaving the opposition scrambling. Jay is now the BJP candidate for the November 11 by-election, marking the first poll under Majhi’s 18-month-old administration.

BJD Voices Anger and Disappointment

BJD leaders have expressed outrage over the defection. Senior leader Pratap Jena criticized Jay as a “foster son” who has joined the BJP, accusing him of aligning with “melters and thieves” in a so-called “horse-trading” exercise. Jena asserted that despite his father’s legacy and previous cabinet elevation, Jay’s moral standing is questionable, while affirming that BJD’s electoral strength remains firm.

BJP’s Sharp Retort

BJP leader Jayanarayan Mishra fired back with pointed sarcasm, questioning BJD’s accusations. “Odisha doesn’t have any more horses left for trading, so how can we purchase what is not there?” he said, highlighting the confusion within the rival camp.

Race for Candidates Intensifies

As BJD hurriedly seeks a replacement for its earlier candidate Abhinandan Panda, son of former MP Basant Panda, multiple contenders are emerging for the bypoll. The Congress party is also closely observing, looking for opportunities to capitalize. With nomination day commencing today, the people of Nuapada are set to witness an intense electoral battle that could reshape state alliances.

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Jay Dholakia Joins BJP Ahead of Nuapada Bypoll, Political Equations Shift Sharply in Odisha

OdishaConnect — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 15:38:45 +0000

In a dramatic prelude to the upcoming Nuapada Assembly by-election, a major political realignment unfolded in Odisha on Friday as Jay Dholakia, son of late BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His formal induction at the state BJP headquarters has effectively ended weeks of speculation surrounding the party’s likely candidate for the bypoll.

The joining ceremony turned into a show of strength for the ruling party, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, BJP state president Manmohan Samal, senior leaders Basant Panda and Suresh Pujari, and several top functionaries in attendance. Hundreds of supporters gathered at the venue to welcome Jay into the saffron fold.

CM Majhi’s Pitch: “BJP Has Delivered What Others Couldn’t”

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi took a swipe at the previous BJD government, claiming that its ministers had been “helpless” and unable to address people’s issues.
“Even the late Raju Babu (Rajendra Dholakia) had expressed frustration over not being able to resolve Nuapada’s long-pending problems. In the last 16 months, our government has fulfilled every promise. Jay’s joining will bring new energy and light to Nuapada’s development journey,” Majhi said.

Jay Dholakia: “Fulfilling My Father’s Dream Is My Duty”

Expressing gratitude after joining the BJP, Jay Dholakia said he was motivated by conviction, not compulsion.
“It is my duty to fulfill my father’s unfinished dream. I have joined BJP out of my own will after witnessing its vision, principles, and progressive governance. I dedicate myself to realizing the dreams of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Majhi, and my late father. Development in backward regions like Nuapada must be a continuous mission,” he said, asserting that he faced neither pressure nor inducement to join.

BJD Hits Back: “This Is Horse-Trading, Not Ideological Shift”

Jay’s crossover, however, has dealt a sharp blow to the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which had reportedly considered him a potential candidate for the bypoll.
Reacting sharply, senior BJD leader Pratap Jena alleged, “Jay used to say Naveen Patnaik is his leader, but now he has joined BJP. This is nothing but political horse-trading. Rajendra Babu’s blood does not run in his veins — he was an adopted son. The late leader’s soul will never forgive this betrayal.”

Jena further claimed that Jay’s move would have no real impact on the outcome of the election, but his remarks have sparked controversy among locals, with many viewing them as disrespectful.

Nuapada Bypoll on November 11

The Election Commission of India has scheduled polling for the Nuapada by-election on November 11, coinciding with the Bihar Assembly polls. While Congress has already named Ghasiram Majhi as its candidate, both BJD and BJP have yet to announce their official nominees.

Jay’s induction, however, has changed the dynamics of the race, with strong speculation that he will emerge as the BJP’s face in the constituency — one historically loyal to the Dholakia family.

In the 2024 Assembly polls, BJP had finished a distant third in Nuapada, but with this symbolic joining, the party hopes to reclaim lost ground in western Odisha.

Political Significance

Jay Dholakia’s entry into BJP is being seen as a prestige battle — not just for the ruling party but also for Chief Minister Majhi’s 16-month-old government. The bypoll result is expected to serve as a litmus test for the BJP’s governance record and its growing influence in western Odisha, where emotional legacy, regional aspirations, and development politics are set to collide head-on.

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Congress Nominates Ghasiram Majhi for Nuapada Bypoll: A Strategic Move Toward Revival

OdishaConnect — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:54:13 +0000

The Congress party has taken its first decisive step toward reclaiming the Nuapada Assembly seat by announcing the candidature of Ghasiram Majhi. His nomination, confirmed by the All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Tuesday, has infused fresh enthusiasm among party workers across the region. The by-election, scheduled for November 11, 2025, follows the demise of Rajendra Dholakia, the sitting BJD MLA.

Consensus Choice Backed by PCC Leadership

At a meeting of the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chaired by Bhakta Charan Das, Majhi—who also serves as the President of the Nuapada District Congress Committee—was chosen as the party’s candidate with full consensus. The PCC’s decision came after a detailed session on Monday, recognizing Majhi’s organizational strength and grassroots connection in the region.

Although Majhi has contested the Nuapada seat three times earlier—once as an Independent in 2024 and twice as a Congress nominee in 2014 and 2019, finishing second with 50,941 votes—he has yet to taste victory. Still, PCC president Bhakta Charan Das exudes confidence, citing a solid Congress vote base of over 65,000 in the constituency.

Early Campaign Momentum for Congress

The Congress has already launched its campaign in full swing. Bhakta Charan Das, who is also the MP from Kalahandi, under which the Nuapada constituency falls, led a four-day rally in the district, signalling a spirited start to the election season. This proactive approach is expected to put both BJD and BJP on the defensive, as neither has declared its candidate yet, leaving them behind in the initial phase of campaigning.

A Fierce Political Battle Ahead

The upcoming Nuapada by-election promises to be one of the most gripping contests in Odisha’s political landscape. As tensions rise and electoral strategies unfold, Ghasiram Majhi’s nomination has galvanized Congress supporters, setting the stage for a high-stakes triangular fight. With Congress entering the race early and leveraging its local network, the battle for Nuapada is poised to be both strategic and intense.

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Bihar Polls: Voters Can Now Bring Mobiles to Booths, Says EC

OdishaConnect — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:39:54 +0000

ECI Allows Mobile Phones at Bihar Polling Booths

In an unprecedented move, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has permitted voters to carry mobile phones to polling booths for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, scheduled in two phases on 6 and 11 November, with counting set for 14 November. Chief Election Commissioner Jnanesh Kumar announced the decision at a press conference, marking a significant departure from previous restrictions on mobiles inside polling stations.

New Measures to Enhance Voter Convenience

This change is part of 17 new measures introduced by the ECI to improve the voting experience. Previously, voters had to leave their phones at home or outside polling stations, causing inconvenience and concerns over theft. To address this, secure boxes will be provided at polling stations to safely store mobile phones during voting.

Maintaining Electoral Integrity

Despite allowing mobiles, strict rules will be enforced within the polling and confidential areas to preserve the sanctity of the election process. The ECI emphasized that the reform balances voter convenience with transparency and security.

Nationwide Implications

Starting with Bihar, this initiative is expected to expand nationwide, making voting more comfortable for citizens across India. Officials believe the reform could boost voter turnout by removing a longstanding obstacle for voters.

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Tejashwi Declared INDIA Bloc’s Chief Ministerial Face in Bihar

OdishaConnect — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 12:44:53 +0000

In a bold political step ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav announced himself as the chief ministerial candidate of the INDIA alliance. The declaration came at a joint rally attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, symbolising growing unity within the opposition bloc.

“Not Ambition, But a Shared Mission”

Addressing the rally, Tejashwi asserted, “This is not a personal ambition – it is a shared mission. I will be the initiator of Bihar’s change.” His words drew thunderous applause from party workers, who view him as the face of a new generation of politics in the state.

Show of Strength in Mahagathbandhan’s Heartland

The rally, organised in the stronghold of the Mahagathbandhan, was designed to energise cadres and send voters a strong message: the opposition alliance has a clear roadmap and united leadership. The optics underlined strategy as well as symbolism, projecting a collective resolve to challenge the ruling NDA.

Rahul and Akhilesh Signal Alliance Unity

Though Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav refrained from formally endorsing Tejashwi’s candidature in their speeches, their presence and tone reflected alliance solidarity. Sources suggest that Tejashwi has long been the consensus choice in Bihar, owing to his rising popularity among youth and marginalised communities.

Attack on BJP and Call for Inclusive Politics

Tejashwi used the platform to launch an attack on the BJP, framing the election as a battle beyond party lines—“a battle for Bihar’s future.” He urged people to reject divisive politics and instead support the INDIA bloc’s vision of inclusive and developmental governance.

Analysts Weigh In: Early Advantage for RJD Leader

Political observers believe Tejashwi’s early declaration could help consolidate votes and streamline campaign messaging for the alliance. However, the critical test will be the final seat-sharing negotiations and formal approval from all alliance partners.

Bihar’s Election Battle Intensifies

With the elections drawing closer, Tejashwi’s announcement sets the stage for a high-stakes political contest. The transparency of leadership choice and the cohesion of the INDIA bloc may prove decisive in shaping Bihar’s electoral outcome.

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