The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to enhance its strength in the Rajya Sabha as 37 seats across 10 states are set for biennial elections on March 16. The development is seen as favourable for the ruling party, given its political standing in several of the states going to polls.
According to the Election Commission, the terms of these members will end on April 2 and April 9. Official notifications for the elections will be issued on February 26. Voting is scheduled between 9 am and 4 pm on March 16, with counting beginning at 5 pm the same day.
The states where elections will take place include Maharashtra (7 seats), Tamil Nadu (6), West Bengal (5), Bihar (5), Odisha (4), Assam (3), Telangana (2), Chhattisgarh (2), Haryana (2) and Himachal Pradesh (1).
The BJP currently governs or shares power in Maharashtra, Odisha, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Assam. This political advantage is expected to work in the party’s favour and potentially increase its representation in the Upper House.
On the other hand, opposition parties hold power in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, West Bengal and Himachal Pradesh, which could influence the outcome in those states.
In Maharashtra, where seven seats are up for election, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) may secure a seat if it presents a unified front.
Several prominent leaders are retiring in this cycle, including Sharad Pawar, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Saket Gokhale, Ramdas Athawale, M. Thambidurai and Tiruchi Siva, marking a significant reshuffle in the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
