Sat Feb 08 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## BJP Leads in Milkipur By-Election Amidst SP Allegations of Fraud

**Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh –** The counting of votes for the Milkipur Assembly by-election, held on Wednesday, February 5th, commenced at 8:00 AM today. The by-election, necessitated by the election of Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Awadhesh Prasad to the Lok Sabha, has become a high-stakes battle between the BJP and SP. The seat, part of politically significant Ayodhya district, was the only one in the district that BJP lost in the 2022 UP Assembly elections. Voter turnout exceeded 65%, surpassing the 2022 figure.

Early trends showed the BJP candidate, Chandrabhan Paswan, taking a significant lead over SP’s Ajit Prasad (Awadhesh Prasad’s son). As counting progressed, the BJP’s lead fluctuated but remained substantial. By the ninth round, BJP secured 47,216 votes compared to SP’s 21,763, and Azad Samaj Party’s 1,545 votes. Later updates showed BJP’s lead increasing to over 28,530 votes.

Despite the BJP’s strong lead, SP leader Awadhesh Prasad accused the BJP of widespread irregularities and booth capturing, claiming the Election Commission failed to act on their complaints. He alleged that BJP had broken records in dishonesty. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, however, expressed confidence in a BJP victory, drawing a parallel with the anticipated BJP win in the Delhi Assembly elections.

The Milkipur by-election is seen as a crucial test for both parties, with the SP aiming to retain the seat and the BJP seeking to avenge their 2022 defeat. The counting process, involving 14 tables and expected to conclude in 30 rounds, is being closely monitored by authorities amidst a large gathering of supporters and heavy police deployment. The final results are awaited with great anticipation.

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