The November 2025 Assembly by-elections across eight constituencies in India witnessed an intense political battle, with early trends showing a scattered yet significant advantage for major national and regional parties. As counting progressed on Thursday morning, leads began shifting rapidly, reflecting the competitive political landscape in states such as Punjab, Telangana, Odisha, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Mizoram and Jammu & Kashmir.
In Punjab’s Tarn Taran seat, the Aam Aadmi Party started strong, with Harmeet Singh Sandhu securing a comfortable early lead. This constituency, known for its fluctuating political patterns, appears to be leaning towards AAP in the initial rounds.
The Congress gained momentum in Telangana’s high-profile Jubilee Hills constituency, where Naveen Yadav emerged ahead, boosting the party’s prospects in a seat that has seen heightened political focus over the past few weeks.
The Bharatiya Janata Party marked notable progress in two states: Devyani Rana led in Nagrota (Jammu & Kashmir), while Jay Dholakia took an early lead in Nuapada (Odisha). Both constituencies are crucial for the BJP as it aims to expand its influence in these regions.
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha’s Somesh Chandra Soren held the advantage in Ghatshila, strengthening the party’s grip in its traditional stronghold. In Rajasthan’s Anta constituency, Congress veteran Pramod Jain ‘Bhaya’ was ahead in the early count.
The Mizo National Front registered a lead in Dampa, where Dr. R. Lalthangliana moved ahead. Meanwhile, the PDP led in Budgam (J&K) with Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi gaining an early edge.
The early by-election trends underline a diverse electoral mood, with regional factors playing a decisive role. Final results are expected to shape state-level dynamics as parties evaluate their performance ahead of major political contests in 2026.
