Rajya Sabha Election 2026: Full Schedule, Key Dates, & State-Wise Vacancies

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the upcoming biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha, where 37 seats across 10 states will be contested. These seats are set to fall vacant in April 2026 as the current members complete their six-year term.

The states involved in this round of elections include Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana.

According to the official notification, the election process will begin on February 26. Candidates must file their nominations by March 5, with scrutiny scheduled for March 6. The deadline for withdrawal of nominations is March 9. Polling will take place on March 16, and votes will be counted the same day at 5 p.m.

The entire process will conclude by March 20, ensuring a smooth transition before the current members demit office.

The Commission has emphasized strict adherence to guidelines regarding the conduct of voting. It has mandated that only integrated violet-coloured sketch pens of pre-fixed specifications, supplied by the Returning Officer, be used to mark preferences on ballot papers. The directive clearly prohibits the use of any other writing instruments, underscoring the importance of uniformity and security in the voting process. Observers will also be appointed to oversee proceedings and ensure free and fair elections.

Parallel to the Rajya Sabha election preparations, the ECI has intensified its voter awareness initiatives in poll-bound regions. A large-scale campaign focusing on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units is underway in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. The aim is to familiarize voters with the functioning of these systems and build confidence in the electoral process.

The Commission reported that more than 1.20 lakh electors have already participated in demonstration camps at EVM Demonstration Centres (EDCs) across these states and union territories. Additionally, over 1.16 lakh electors have cast mock votes during these sessions, gaining firsthand experience of the voting procedure.

Mobile Demonstration Vans (MDVs) have also been deployed extensively, covering more than 29,000 polling station locations as of February 10. These efforts are being carried out in a structured and time-bound manner to maximize outreach and ensure inclusivity.

By combining meticulous planning for the Rajya Sabha elections with proactive voter education campaigns, the ECI seeks to reinforce transparency, credibility, and public trust in India's democratic institutions. The upcoming polls will not only fill crucial vacancies in the Council of States but also highlight the Commission's commitment to strengthening electoral participation and integrity.