Punjabs Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sibin C on Thursday announced that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has released the schedule for by-elections in four crucial Assembly constituencies — Dera Baba Nanak (10), Chabbewal (SC-44), Gidderbaha (84), and Barnala (103).   As per the official notification, the election process will commence with the issuance of the Gazette notification on October 18, 2024 (Friday). The nomination process will follow, with candidates able to submit their nominations from October 18 to 25. The final day for filing nominations is October 25 (Friday), while the scrutiny of nominations will take place on October 28 (Monday). Candidates who wish to withdraw from the race can do so by October 30 (Wednesday).   The polling is scheduled for November 13, with voting hours set from 7 am to 6 pm, ensuring ample time for voters to cast their ballots. The counting of votes will take place on November 23, and the entire election process is slated to conclude by November 25.   Sibin C highlighted that candidates must file their nomination papers in FORM 2B, which is available with the Returning Officer. Additionally, typed nomination forms will be accepted as long as they adhere to the prescribed format. Candidates must also be registered electors in any constituency within Punjab, and a certified copy of their electoral roll entry must be submitted to confirm eligibility.   The CEO also clarified that although October 19 (Saturday) is not a holiday under the Negotiable Instrument Act, nomination papers can be filed on that day. However, October 20 (Sunday) is a holiday, and no nominations will be accepted.   With the Model Code of Conduct now in effect, all political activities in the concerned districts will be strictly regulated until the completion of the election process.  

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