Bhubaneswar, October 24: The Nuapada Assembly by-election is set to feature a competitive race, as no candidates have withdrawn their nominations ahead of the October 24 polls. With the deadline for withdrawal passing today, a total of 14 candidates will be in the fray.
The withdrawal window remained open from 11 AM to 3 PM today, after which the final list of candidates was confirmed.
Prominent candidates include Jay Dholakia from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Snehangini Chhuria from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), and Ghasiram Majhi from the Indian National Congress (INC).
Several smaller parties have also fielded candidates, with Ramakanta Hati representing the Samajwadi Party, Hemant Tandi from the Bahujan Mukti Party, and Shukadhar Dandasena of the Odisha Janata Dal.
In addition, eight independent candidates will be vying for the seat: Ashraya Mahanand, Chakrant Jena, Bhuban Lal Sahu, Kishor Kumar Bag, Neeta Bag, Lakshmi Kant Tandi, Bhakta Bandhu Dhurua, and Lochana Majhi.
Political experts believe there will be a tri-cornered contest in the ensuing Nuapada by-election
