New Delhi, Apr 10: The Election Commission on Wednesday 'adjourned' the Lok Sabha poll in Betul seat of Madhya Pradesh, which was to be held on April 26 in phase two, following the death of a BSP candidate. The electoral exercise in the seat will be now held in the third phase on May 7.

According to the Commission, the BSP candidate died on April 9 and the election was adjourned under Section 52 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 by the returning officer. Madhya Pradesh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Campaign Ends for Six LS Seats Going to Polls in First Phase in MP; 88 Candidates in Fray.

If a candidate of a recognised national or state party dies before poll, the election is adjourned to allow the party identify and field a fresh candidate. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is a recognised national party. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Madhya Pradesh BJP In-Charge for General Polls Miffed With Party MLAs’ Reluctance on Guideline.

"The Commission has decided to hold the adjourned poll in 29-Betul (ST) PC of Madhya Pradesh in 3rd Phase (May 7) of General Election to Lok Sabha, 2024," it said. Voting for the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls will be held from April 19 to June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.