The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday issued a detailed press note announcing bye-elections for three vacant Assembly constituencies across Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. The elections aim to fill seats that have fallen vacant due to resignation, disqualification, and death of the respective sitting legislators.

The vacancies are as follows:

• Bihar: 182-Bankipur Assembly Constituency – Vacant due to the resignation of Sh. Nitin Nabin.
• Madhya Pradesh: 22-Datia Assembly Constituency – Vacant due to the disqualification of Sh. Rajendra Bharti.
• Gujarat: 145-Manjalpur Assembly Constituency – Vacant due to the death of Sh. Yogeshbhai Narandas Patel.

Key Election Schedule :

Polling Arrangements: All polling stations will use Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) along with Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems. A wide range of photo identity documents, including EPIC, Aadhaar, Driving License, PAN Card, Passport, and others, will be accepted for voter identification.

Model Code of Conduct (MCC): The Model Code of Conduct has come into immediate effect in the concerned districts/areas.

Criminal Antecedents Disclosure: Candidates with criminal backgrounds and the political parties fielding them must publish details in newspapers and TV channels on three specific occasions during the campaign period. This is in line with Supreme Court directives. Details will also be available on the ECINET portal under “Know Your Candidates.”

No Dues Certificate: Intending candidates who have occupied government accommodation in the last 10 years can obtain a “No Dues Certificate” for rent, electricity, water, and telephone charges.

The Election Commission has urged all stakeholders to maintain high standards of electoral integrity during the process.