A view of the Election Commission of India in New Delhi. File
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday (October 22, 2026) announced that a byelection would be held on November 12 to the Rajya Sabha seat from Madhya Pradesh, which was vacated by former Union Minister L. Murugan.
Mr. Murugan, who was Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Information and Broadcasting, had quit the Union Council of Ministers and the Rajya Sabha on October 14.
His term was due to end on April 2, 2030.
As per procedure, counting will be held on the day of polling itself that is November 12. The last date of filing nominations would be November 2 and the last date for withdrawal of candidature would be November 5. The entire election process would be completed by November 16.
Following his resignation, Mr. Murugan had said that he wants to focus on strengthening the BJP in Tamil Nadu.
With the BJP ruling Madhya Pradesh, its candidate will have a smooth sailing in the bypoll.
Rajya Sabha MPs are elected by members of legislative assemblies.
Published – October 22, 2026 12:28 pm IST
