Last date for nominations filing for 2nd phase of elections in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Tuesday is the last date to file nomination for the second phase of elections in the state. Leaders of participating parties are expected to file their nominations today.

While the elections in Odisha begin from April 11, Bargarh, Sundargarh, Balangir, Kandhamal, and Aska will have voting in second phase beginning from April 18. Along with these five Lok Sabha seats, 35 Vidhan Sabha seats also go for polling.

As of now, the ruling Biju Janta Dal (BJD) has four of the above mentioned five Lok Sabha seats. The only exception being the Sundargarh seat which was won by Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) MP Jual Oram. Out of the mentioned 35 Vidhan Sabha seats, BJD had won 23, Congress 6, BJP 4 and one each for Samatakanti and CPM back in 2014 Elections.

The second phase elections are touted to be an acid test for BJD as they four Lok Sabha and 23 Vidhan Sabha seats and they will be hoping to retain all of them in 2019 Elections.

The verification process of nominations shall begin from tomorrow.

Also Read: Former Legislative Assembly candidate murdered in Odisha