CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Elections to 10 Rajya Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh are scheduled for October 16, 2026, setting the stage for a closely watched contest over the final seat. The Election Commission announced the schedule on September 22, with counting also scheduled for October 16.
The current strength of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly gives the BJP-led alliance the numbers to secure multiple seats, while the Samajwadi Party is positioned to win two seats. A Rajya Sabha candidate requires around 37 votes under the applicable preferential voting system.
Eight of the 10 seats becoming vacant are currently held by BJP members, while one each is held by the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party. The BSP's Rajya Sabha representation is also at stake as the term of its member Ramji Gautam ends in November.
The main political calculation centres on the remaining seat. Reports indicate that the SP would need additional support beyond its existing legislative strength if it decides to field a third candidate. The party has around 97 MLAs, while the effective strength of the Assembly is currently 397.
The BJP is also considering its candidate selection for the election, with reports suggesting that caste and regional representation may be among the factors being discussed within the party.
The Rajya Sabha election is taking place ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, making the October contest an important exercise in legislative arithmetic, candidate selection and alliance coordination for the parties.
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