Polling was conducted today for by-elections in five assembly constituencies from across Kerala, Gujarat, Punjab, and West Bengal. The poll, which started at 7:00 AM and ended by 6:00 PM (5:00 PM in West Bengal), is being viewed as a crucial political pointer before the significant state elections due early next year in 2026.
Constituencies That Voted:
- Kerala: Nilambur (Malappuram district)
- Gujarat: Kadi (Mehsana district, SC-reserved), Visavadar (Junagadh district)
- Punjab: Ludhiana West (Ludhiana district)
- West Bengal: Kaliganj (Nadia district)
All constituencies witnessed peaceful polling, with central armed police forces used to ensure law and order. Webcasting and real-time monitoring were organized at most polling stations. Constituency Highlights: Nilambur (Kerala) The bypoll was forced due to Independent MLA PV Anvar giving up the seat. A four-cornered race is in process between the UDF, LDF, BJP, and independents. Voter turnout was moderate in the morning hours.
Kadi (Gujarat)
This SC-reserved seat became vacant after the demise of a BJP MLA. AAP, Congress, and BJP are locked in a tough fight here. Seasoned BJP leader Nitin Patel was spotted voting in Mehsana district early morning.
Visavadar (Gujarat)
A crucial seat in Junagadh district, Visavadar saw a triangular fight between BJP’s Kirit Patel, Congress, and AAP. The seat was left vacant by an AAP turncoat.
Kaliganj (West Bengal)
Elections were held in the presence of tight security and amidst political tension. The constituency was left vacant after the death of a TMC MLA. Minor skirmishes were reported between Congress and TMC polling agents, but polling took place mostly peacefully.
Ludhiana West (Punjab)
The seat became vacant following the demise of an AAP MLA. The bypoll has seen candidates from 14 parties, ranging from AAP to Congress, BJP, and SAD. Special arrangements were made by election authorities for elderly and disabled voters, such as ramps and model booths.
Why These Bypolls Matter These bypolls are attracting close attention as they provide a pointer to public mood before assembly elections in important states such as Kerala and West Bengal in early 2026. The results for national parties such as the BJP and Congress—and regional forces such as AAP, TMC, and the Left—may influence alliance and tactics in the future.
What’s Next?
Counting Date: June 23, 2025
Results: Will reflect performance of ruling and opposition parties in diverse political landscapes.
