Bagalkot
The district administration has kicked off preparations for the by-election in the Bagalkot Assembly constituency following the sudden demise of MLA H.Y. Meti. Deputy Commissioner Sangappa announced the election schedule and arrangements during a press conference at the District Administration Building in Bagalkot city.
The official election notification was issued on March 16. Candidates can file nominations until March 23, with scrutiny set for March 24. March 26 is the last date to withdraw nominations. Polling will take place on April 9, while vote counting is scheduled for May 4.
To facilitate smooth voting, 319 polling stations have been set up across the constituency, including 143 in urban areas and 176 in rural parts. Bagalkote has a total of 2,59,260 registered voters, comprising 1,26,761 males, 1,32,476 females, and 23 voters in the ‘others’ category.
The administration will use 517 VVPAT machines alongside electronic voting machines to ensure transparency. A workforce of 9,597 personnel has been deployed to manage polling operations, security, and monitoring.
To curb illegal activities, 24 check posts have been established across the district, monitoring the movement of cash, liquor, gifts, and other items that could influence voters. Mudhol, Terdal, and Jamakhandi each have three check posts, Bilagi three, Badami four, Bagalkot four, and Hungund four.
The maximum expenditure limit for each candidate is fixed at ₹40 lakhs, as per Election Commission guidelines. Deputy Commissioner Sangappa urged citizens to actively participate in ensuring free and fair elections. Complaints about violations of the Model Code of Conduct can be filed through the eVIGIL mobile application for quick action.
Officials assured that all measures are in place to conduct the by-election in a peaceful, transparent, and efficient manner. Citizens are encouraged to cast their votes responsibly and help maintain the integrity of the electoral process.