Those remaining contests are in Bihar, Odisha and Haryana.
The election, however, does not follow the same system used in general parliamentary polls. Rajya Sabha members are chosen through a different method – proportional representation using the single transferable vote, often referred to as STV.
What is the single transferable vote system in Rajya Sabha elections?
Rajya Sabha elections are conducted through Proportional Representation by means of the Single Transferable Vote. It is designed to reflect the strength of political parties within state legislative assemblies.
In this system, Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) act as the voters. Instead of selecting only one candidate, MLAs receive a ballot listing all contestants. They then mark their preferences – first, second, third, and so on.
How the vote quota and elimination process determine winners
A candidate does not necessarily need the highest number of first-choice votes. Once voting ends, officials calculate the minimum number of votes required to win, commonly called the quota. Candidates who cross this mark are declared elected.
If seats remain vacant and no other candidate meets the quota, the counting process moves to the next stage. The candidate with the lowest number of votes is eliminated.
Their ballots are then examined again. Votes cast for that candidate are transferred to the next preferred candidate marked on each ballot paper. This redistribution continues until all seats are filled.
Because preferences can move from one candidate to another, the method attempts to mirror the proportional strength of parties in the assembly rather than a simple majority outcome.
Polling schedule and results
With the fate of 26 seats already decided, the remaining seats in Bihar, Odisha and Haryana will determine the final composition of this round of Rajya Sabha elections.
Voting on the 11 contested Rajya Sabha seats will close at 4 pm. Counting will follow shortly afterwards.
