Bargarh: The nomination papers of two candidates out of total seven candidates, who had filed their candidature for Bijepur by-poll scheduled to be held on October 21, were rejected during a scrutiny today.

Sources said nomination of Samajwadi Party candidate Gangadhara Purohit and independent candidate Dolamani Behera were rejected after the scrutiny.

Following this development, BJD candidate Rita Sahu, BJP candidate Sanat Gartia, Congress candidate Dillip Panda, All-India Hindu Mahasabha candidate Ashok Mittal and independent candidate Brundaban Purohit remained in fray. Last date for withdrawal of nomination is October 3.

The Bijepur by-poll is expected to be a triangular fight between BJD, BJP and Congress. The counting of votes will be held on October 24.