The Election Commission of India has scheduled bypolls for three Rajya Sabha seats from West Bengal on July 24, with results to be declared on the same day. The vacancies arose after three Trinamool Congress (TMC) members resigned in June, triggered by a rebellion within the party.
Background of the Vacancies
The three Rajya Sabha seats fell vacant following the resignations of Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Shekhar Ray, and Prakash Chik Baraik. Ray resigned on June 8, Dev on June 10, and Baraik on June 11. All three had over three years remaining in their terms. The resignations were part of a larger revolt within the TMC, which began when 20 TMC Lok Sabha MPs, led by veteran leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, announced their merger with the Nationalist Citizens’ Party of India (NCPI).
Election Timeline
The Election Commission stated that the notification for the bypolls will be issued on July 7. The last date for filing nominations is July 14, and the deadline for withdrawal of candidature is July 17. Voting will take place on July 24, and counting will be held on the same day, ensuring a swift electoral process.
Political Implications
The bypolls are significant as they will test the electoral strength of the TMC after the recent split. The NCPI, formed by the dissident TMC MPs, is expected to field candidates, potentially altering the political dynamics in West Bengal. The TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, aims to retain the seats to maintain its majority in the Rajya Sabha.
According to political analysts, the bypolls will be a crucial indicator of the TMC's organizational strength and public support following the rebellion. The Election Commission has made arrangements for smooth conduct of the elections, adhering to COVID-19 protocols if necessary.
