Bypolls 2023 LIVE: I.N.D.I.A. Bloc Faces First Test In Byelections To 7 Assembly Seats Today

Bypolls 2023 LIVE: Hello and welcome to ABP LIVE’s blog for live updates on byelections for seven Assembly seats in six states scheduled for Tuesday, marking the first electoral test for the opposition bloc I.N.D.I.A against the BJP. While the opposition alliance is presenting a united front in the Ghosi constituency in Uttar Pradesh, it’s a different scenario in Dhupguri in West Bengal and Puthuppally in Kerala, where alliance constituents are contesting against each other. The counting of votes is set for September 8.

In Uttar Pradesh, the Ghosi seat became vacant after the resignation of Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA and OBC leader Dara Singh Chauhan, who rejoined the BJP. The ruling BJP-led NDA has fielded Chauhan, while Samajwadi Party candidate Sudhakar Singh has garnered support from the Congress and Left parties. This election is a significant test for opposition unity, with both sides campaigning intensely, knowing that a victory could set a trend in their favor for the Lok Sabha polls next year. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has led the BJP’s campaign, while SP chief Akhilesh Yadav addressed an election meeting, emphasizing the potential for a change in the country’s politics.

The Dhupguri assembly constituency in North Bengal is witnessing a three-cornered contest among the TMC, BJP, and the Congress-supported CPI(M). The TMC won the seat in 2016 but lost it to the BJP in 2021. 

In Dhanpur and Boxanagar assembly seats in Tripura’s Sepahijala district, Chief Minister Manik Saha is leading the BJP’s campaign. The Tipra Motha and Congress are not participating. Boxanagar constituency is considered the Left party’s stronghold, and Dhanpur, once a stronghold of the communists, is heading for a direct fight between BJP and CPI(M) candidates.

In Jharkhand’s Dumri, INDIA bloc candidate Bebi Devi is in a direct contest with NDA candidate Yashoda Devi. The by-election was called after the death of JMM MLA Jagarnath Mahto.

In Kerala’s Puthuppally bypoll, the Congress and the ruling Left will contest against each other, with the opposition party hoping to capitalize on anti-incumbency and the late Oommen Chandy’s legacy. The Congress-led UDF opposition has fielded Chandy’s son, Chandy Oommen, while the ruling Left has chosen DYFI leader Jaick C Thomas. The BJP has also fielded a candidate.

Lastly, in Uttarakhand, it’s a straight contest between the BJP and Congress for the Bageshwar seat. The ruling BJP aims to retain the seat, which was won by Parvati Das’ husband Chandan Das in four consecutive elections since 2007. His unfortunate demise necessitated the bypoll. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and other top BJP leaders have campaigned for Parvati Das. Congress heavyweights like Harish Rawat have been mobilizing support for party candidate Basant Kumar.

These by-elections will offer an initial gauge of voter sentiment and political dynamics in these states.