ITANAGAR, 2 Jun: The state BJP has clarified that it is yet to officially announce the name of the party’s candidate for the Rajya Sabha (RS) election from Arunachal Pradesh.

Dismissing rumours surrounding the names of official candidates being circulated on social media, BJP spokesperson Tanya Agu informed that the party is yet to issue an official ticket. All the names being circulated on social media are fake, and there is no truth to it, he added.

“BJP has not issued an official party ticket to anyone. Whatever names are being circulated on social media are fake, and we will announce it when we receive the official name,” said Agu.

He also informed that till now 16 candidates have applied for the party ticket.

Meanwhile, the nomination process for polls to the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Arunachal Pradesh commenced on Monday with the issuance of the Election Commission notification, an official said.

The last date for filing nominations is 8 June, while scrutiny of papers will be taken up on 9 June, he said. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is 11 June.

Sitting MP Nabam Rebia’s term ends on 23 June.

In the event of a contest, polling will take place on 18 June, and counting of votes will be held the same day, the official said.

The EC had earlier announced elections to 27 Rajya Sabha seats, including 24 biennial vacancies in 10 states.

Those in the fray include Environment and Forest Minister Wangki Lowang, incumbent Rajya Sabha MP Nabam Rebia, Pasighat West MLA Ninong Ering, former ministers Taba Tedir and Tage Taki, and former state BJP presidents Tai Tagak and Tangor Tapak.

With the BJP commanding an overwhelming majority in the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, the party nominee is expected to comfortably win the Rajya Sabha seat. (With PTI input)