BJP announces 8 candidates for Rajya Sabha polls in UP; Puri, BL Verma not in list

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced eight candidates from Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls, set to take place on October 16, 2026. The party's shortlist includes figures such as Radhakant Ojha, Prakash Pal, and Shruti Gangwar, reflecting its strong position in the state based on its assembly strength. The Samajwadi Party (SP) has filed two candidates so far, with a third likely to contest, potentially leading to polling on the same day as the BJP's candidates.

The BJP's list was finalized a day before the nomination deadline and comes after extensive deliberation over potential candidates. The Rajya Sabha elections for Uttar Pradesh are part of the party's broader strategy to secure a significant number of seats in the upper house.

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