A total of 15 nomination papers were submitted by seven candidates on Monday for the by-election to Gujarat’s Manjalpur Assembly constituency. The nomination papers will undergo scrutiny on July 14, with candidates allowed to withdraw until July 16. Polling is scheduled for July 30, and the counting of votes will occur on August 3.
The seven candidates who filed nominations include representatives from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Right to Recall Party, and an independent candidate. The Manjalpur Assembly seat became vacant following the passing of veteran BJP MLA Yogesh Patel on June 2. Patel had a long-standing political career, having won eight consecutive Assembly elections.
In accordance with Election Commission guidelines, candidates are required to submit an affidavit disclosing details of assets, liabilities, educational qualifications, and any criminal cases. The BJP has nominated Satish Patel, while the Congress has put forward Bhikha Rabari as their candidate. The final list of candidates will be confirmed after the scrutiny of nominations on July 14 and the withdrawal deadline on July 16.
The by-election in Manjalpur is significant as it marks the first Assembly electoral contest in Gujarat since the seat became vacant. It is anticipated to test the organizational strength of both the BJP and the Congress in Vadodara.
