BJP Names Koel Mallick as Candidate for West Bengal Rajya Sabha Bypoll

The BJP has named actor Koel Mallick as its candidate for the Rajya Sabha by-election to the vacant West Bengal seat. The seat fell vacant after Mallick resigned from the Upper House in July.

According to Indian Express Bangla, Mallick had taken oath as a Rajya Sabha MP in April this year after being elected on a Trinamool Congress ticket. She resigned from the Rajya Sabha on July 16.

The Election Commission has scheduled polling for October 16 from 9 am to 4 pm. The last date for filing nominations is October 6, while candidates can withdraw nominations until October 9.

The vacant seat had a term extending until April 2, 2032. Mallick will now contest the by-election as the BJP candidate.

Sources: Anandabazar, Indian Express