Srinagar, January 7: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has deferred the by-elections for Nagrota and Budgam constituencies, citing snowy conditions in the region. The commission confirmed that it has until April 20, 2025, to hold the elections.
In a press briefing, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said that the scheduling of the bye-polls would not occur for now, with the snowfall complicating preparations.
He reassured that the elections will be held within the stipulated time frame.
Omar Abdullah vacated the Budgam seat on October 21, and the Nagrota seat became vacant following the death of Devinder Singh Rana on October 31.
According to section 151A of the Representation of People Act, 1951, by-elections must occur within six months from the date of vacancy.
While the BJP is likely to field Devyani Rana, daughter of the late Devinder Singh Rana, for the Nagrota seat, the National Conference (NC) has yet to announce its candidate for the Budgam seat.
In the 2024 J&K elections, Omar Abdullah secured the Budgam seat by defeating Muntazir Mehdi, while Devinder Singh Rana triumphed in Nagrota over Joginder Singh of the NC.