Voting Begins in Milkipur Assembly By-Election

Uttar Pradesh Chief Election Officer Navdeep Rinwa announced that voting for the 2025 by-election in the Milkipur Assembly Constituency, Ayodhya district, commenced at 7 am on Wednesday, February 5, and will continue until 5 pm. However, voters already in line by 5 pm will be allowed to cast their votes. The Election Commission of India has ensured extensive security and logistical arrangements for a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.

A total of 414 polling stations have been set up across 273-Milkipur (SC) Legislative Assembly, where 3,71,578 voters are expected to exercise their franchise. This includes 1,93,417 male voters, 1,78,153 female voters, and 8 third-gender voters. The election features 10 candidates, including two female candidates. Among the 414 polling stations, 71 have been designated as critical. To ensure smooth voting, 41 sector magistrates, 4 zonal magistrates, and 71 micro-observers have been deployed, along with a general observer, a police observer, and an expenditure observer. Additionally, paramilitary forces have been stationed across the constituency to maintain law and order, including securing the strong room where the electronic voting machines (EVMs) will be stored post-voting.

To enhance transparency, live webcasting has been arranged at 210 polling stations, with monitoring conducted by the District Election Officer, Chief Election Officer, and the Election Commission of India. Furthermore, videography has been arranged at 25 polling stations to record proceedings.

Voter Identification and Slips

To cast their votes, electors must be listed in the voter roll of their designated polling station. Voters must present a Voter Photo Identity Card (EPIC) or any of the 12 identity documents approved by the Election Commission of India to confirm their identity before the polling officer.

Booth Level Officers (BLOs) have distributed voter slips to over 97% of voters. These slips include details such as the polling station number and voter serial number, making it easier for voters to locate their designated booths. However, carrying a voter slip is not mandatory for voting. If a voter does not have a voter slip, they can still cast their vote by presenting valid identification. BLOs will be present at polling stations to assist voters in verifying their details.

Polling Day Regulations

Voters are strictly prohibited from carrying mobile phones, smartphones, or any electronic devices inside polling stations. Additionally, information about the voter turnout percentage will be updated every two hours and shared with the media. These updates will also be available on the Voter Turnout App and the official social media handles of the Chief Electoral Officer of Uttar Pradesh.

For any grievances related to the voting process, voters can contact the Election Commission helpline at 1800-180-1950 to lodge complaints. The Election Commission has urged all eligible voters to participate in this electoral process and contribute to strengthening democracy.