Speed Post News Network
New Delhi : The Election Commission of India (ECI) will hold by-elections to Araria ( Bihar), Phulpur and Gorakhpur ( both in UP) parliamentary constituencies and Bhabhua and Jehanabad assembly constituencies in Bihar on March 11, 2018. The ECI on February 9, 2018, announced the poll schedule after taking into consideration various factors like local festivals, publication of electoral rolls, weather conditions etc. The counting will take place on March 14, 2018.
The Gazette Notification, according to a PIB release, will be issued on February 13, 2018. The last date of filing nominations is February 20.The ECI has decided to use EVMs and VVPATs in the bye-elections in all the polling stations. Adequate numbers of EVMs and VVPATs have been made available and all steps have been taken to ensure that the polls are conducted smoothly with the help of these machines.
With the announcement of poll schedule, the Model Code of Conduct has come into force with immediate effect in the district(s) in which the whole or any part of the Parliamentary / Assembly Constituency going for bye-election is included. The Model Code of Conduct shall be applicable to all candidates, political parties and the State Government concerned. The Model Code of Conduct shall also be applicable to the Union Government for the State(s) concerned.