MP Rajya Sabha By-Election 2026: Overview

MP Rajya Sabha Election 2026: Full Schedule

The Election Commission of India has announced the following schedule for the Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha by-election.

These dates are based on the published election notification. Check the official Election Commission and Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly websites for any subsequent amendments or additional instructions.

What Is the Last Date to File Nominations?

The last date for filing nomination papers for the Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha By-Election 2026 is 2 November 2026. The nomination process begins on 26 October 2026.

Candidates must submit their nomination papers to the designated Returning Officer in accordance with the applicable election rules and instructions. The official election office is located at the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly building in Bhopal.

Anyone seeking detailed information about the prescribed nomination form, required declarations, proposer requirements, submission hours or other documentation should consult the official notification and the Returning Officer. Candidates should not wait until the final day to resolve documentation issues.

What Happens During Scrutiny of Nomination Papers?

Scrutiny of nomination papers is scheduled for 3 November 2026. During this stage, the Returning Officer examines nomination papers under the applicable provisions of election law.

The scrutiny process helps determine whether nominations meet the legal requirements for the election. The Returning Officer may examine the required documents, declarations and other matters relevant to the validity of a nomination.

Important Points About Scrutiny

• Scrutiny is scheduled for 3 November 2026.
• Nomination papers are examined by the designated Returning Officer.
• The validity of each nomination is assessed under applicable election rules.
• Filing a nomination does not automatically mean that the candidature has been accepted.
• For objections, documents and procedural requirements, refer to the official election notification.

What Is the Last Date to Withdraw Candidature?

The last date for withdrawal of candidature is 5 November 2026. Candidates who wish to withdraw must follow the prescribed procedure and submit the required notice to the Returning Officer within the permitted period.

After the withdrawal deadline, the final contesting-candidate position can be established under the applicable election rules. The number of candidates remaining in the contest helps determine whether a poll is necessary.

Voters, political parties and people following the election should consult official announcements after the withdrawal deadline rather than relying on preliminary candidate lists or unverified reports.

Will Voting Take Place on 12 November 2026?

The Election Commission has scheduled polling for 12 November 2026, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, if a poll is necessary. The election process is to be completed before 16 November 2026.

Whether polling is required depends on the status of the contest after the nomination and withdrawal procedures. The official election authorities will provide the applicable information.

This is an indirect election. Eligible elected members of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly vote to elect a Rajya Sabha member representing the state. The general public does not vote directly in this election.

Why Is the Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha Seat Vacant?

The by-election is being conducted to fill the Rajya Sabha seat that became vacant following the resignation of Dr. L. Murugan on 14 October 2026. His term was originally scheduled to continue until 2 April 2030.

The Election Commission issued the election notification on 26 October 2026. The elected member will fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term, subject to the applicable constitutional and election provisions.

Where to Check the Official Election Notification?

For the official schedule, nomination procedures, candidate-related notices and election updates, use the following sources.

The Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly has a dedicated page for the 2026 Rajya Sabha by-election. Refer to the latest official notices for any new information or changes to the published programme.

Frequently Asked Questions