Dr. Jaswant Singh Yadav, the sitting BJP MLA representing Behror constituency, passed away on Sunday, November 8, at a private hospital in Jaipur, immediately reducing the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly's effective strength to 199 members. His demise leaves the Behror Assembly seat vacant.
A seasoned political figure, Dr. Yadav dedicated several years to public service, having previously served as a minister, Member of Parliament, and district chief before his tenure as Behror MLA. His last rites are scheduled for Monday in his native village, Silpata.
News of Dr. Yadav's passing prompted sorrow across Alwar and the Behror region. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed profound grief, describing the news as extremely painful and extending condolences to the bereaved family and supporters. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also mourned, recalling Dr. Yadav as an experienced leader with a long public career, mentioning a recent meeting during his recovery in Chennai. Kerala Governor Om Prakash Mathur further paid tribute, acknowledging Dr. Yadav's significant contributions.
Following the vacancy in Behror, the Election Commission will initiate the process for a by-election. According to Section 151A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, a by-election typically occurs within six months of a seat becoming vacant. With the vacancy arising on November 8, the by-election for Behror is ordinarily required by May 8, 2027. Voting could potentially take place between February and April 2027, with the final schedule to be announced by the Commission.
This reduction in the Assembly's strength to 199 once again highlights a peculiar coincidence that has marked the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly since its new building in Jyoti Nagar, Jaipur, became operational in 2001. The House has rarely maintained its full complement of 200 legislators for an entire five-year term. The 15th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly (2018–2023), for instance, also saw the deaths of multiple sitting members, including Bhanwarlal Sharma, Kailash Trivedi, Kiran Maheshwari, Gajendra Singh Shaktawat, and Master Bhanwarlal Meghwal, consistently bringing the House strength below its sanctioned capacity.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean News