A total of 51.42 per cent of the 2.53 lakh voters exercised their franchise till 1 pm Tuesday in the by-election to Nuapada Assembly seat in Odisha, an official said.

The outcome of the bypoll is being seen as politically significant for the BJD, BJP and Congress as it will indicate public sentiment towards Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s government, test the continued influence of former CM Naveen Patnaik, and reflect the Congress’ relevance in the state.

Polling has been continuing since 7 am across all 358 booths, including 47 identified as sensitive, amid tight security arrangements.

The bypoll was necessitated following the death of BJD MLA Rajendra Dholakia September 8. His son, Jay Dholakia, is contesting the election as a BJP candidate.

Dholakia cast his vote along with his

See Full Page