Datia, The by-election for the Datia assembly seat in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, is not just a contest for a single seat, but a question of political prestige for both the BJP and the Congress. This by-election began when Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti's membership in the assembly was terminated after a court sentenced him to three years in prison in a bank FD fraud case. The seat was subsequently declared vacant, and the Election Commission released the by-election schedule. The nomination process began on July 6, with voting scheduled for July 30, and counting of votes scheduled for August 3. Following this, Datia's political landscape took a rapid turn. The Congress's biggest challenge was to retain its won seat, while the BJP sought revenge for its 2023 defeat and regain control of the seat. The biggest political development occurred when the BJP denied a ticket to former Home Minister Narottam Mishra and nominated Ashutosh Tiwari instead. This decision sparked resentment within the party. However, Narottam Mishra later publicly campaigned in support of the party candidate and urged party workers to support the BJP. Appealed for victory Congress made Ghanshyam Singh its candidate in this election and campaigned by calling the election a democratic mandate and an election of local issues, whereas BJP made the strength of development organization and the schemes of the government its main issues. During the election campaign, many big leaders of BJP including Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia held meetings in Datia. On the other hand, Jitu Patwari and other senior leaders took the lead from the Congress side. Both the parties also made allegations against each other like misuse of administration, presence of outside leaders and violation of the election code of conduct. Another important aspect of this election was the caste equation. All the parties made different strategies to woo Brahmin, Kushwaha, Ahirwar and Yadav voters. With the entry of Azad Samaj Party candidate, there was talk of a triangular contest, although the main fight is believed to be between BJP and Congress. Voting began today on July 30 at 7 am amid tight security. The Election Commission has set up 291 polling stations and webcasting arrangements have been made at sensitive booths with additional police force. Around 2.20 lakh voters are exercising their franchise. Around 50 percent voting was recorded till 1 pm, which led to good enthusiasm among voters. According to the administration, technical problems arose in EVMs and VVPATs at some places, which were immediately replaced and voting continued normally. After the voting is over, all EVMs will be kept in the strong room under tight security. Counting of votes will take place on August 3, 2026, and on the same day it will become clear whether the people of Datia have expressed confidence in BJP's Ashutosh Tiwari, Congress's Ghanshyam Singh or any other candidate.