Even as the dates for the by-elections in seven Assembly constituencies are yet to be announced, political activity has picked up for the Kodinar seat in Junagadh district.

State Congress leaders have already completed a round for the same. A team of party observers recently visited Kodinar and held a meeting with the local leaders.

District Congress unit president Jetha Jora said: “A team headed by state observer Shanta Chavda visited the town on Friday.”

He added that local leaders, including former MLA Kodinar and Una Dhirsinh Barad, Punja Vansh and other office bearers of various Congress units were present at the meeting.

According to sources, the party is divided into three groups, all suggesting candidates of their choice. Sources added: “The observers will submit their report (on the possible candidates) to the state leaders. The name of Dhirsinh Barad has surfaced as a strong candidate.”

On the other hand, in the BJP, someone close to Kodinar-based Junagadh MP Dinu Solanki is likely to be fielded from the seat, according to party sources. Solanki was representing Kodinar in the state Assembly before being elected to the Lok Sabha.

“Kodinar is Solanki’s stronghold; winning the election here is considered to be a cakewalk for Solanki. So, the party will field a candidate recommended by him,” sources said.