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PATNA/ NEW DELHI: (AMN) About 54 voters cast their vote in by and large peaceful atmosphere in the third phase of Bihar Assembly elections on Thursday. Chief Electoral Officer Sudhir Kumar Rakesh however said that maximum 58 percent polling was recorded in west Champaran district. 48 constituencies spread over six districts of East Champaran, West Champaran, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj and Vaishali, some of which are Naxal affected went to polls today. Political fortune of 785 candidates including 65 women has been sealed in EVMs.
In New Delhi Deputy Election Commissioner Vinod Zutshi said that the vote percentage is ncreasing due to the awareness programme launched by the Election Commission. Mr. Zutshi said 221 persons were arrested and 91 vehicles seized during the election process. The Deputy Election Commissioner said that polling was boycotted at three polling booths as the voters registered their protest against lack of development.
Due to full proof security arrangements people exercised their right of franchise more or less fearlessly. A large number of women have come out from their houses to cast their votes. Participation of women voters in polls has been unprecedented which indicates political awareness among women. With this phase elections in 140 assembly constituencies out of 243 has been completed. Fourth phase of polls will be on November 1. Political parties have now shifted their focus to the remaining three phases of elections for the Bihar Assembly.
Sonia flays Nitish govt
Congress President Sonia Gandhi has said that centre was giving enough financial assistance to Bihar for various welfare and development schemes but the state government had failed to utilise the funds properly.
Addressing election rallies in Bhagalpur and Begusarai she also underlined programmes initiated by the UPA government.
The Bahujan Samaj Party Supremo Mayawati addressed public meetings at Arwal and Buxar districts. Samajwadi Party President Mulayam Singh Yadav addressed public meetings at Begusarai, Munger and Lakhisarai in favour of his party candidates. JDU leader and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and several BJP leaders also have hectic schedule for canvassing. Lalu Prasad and Ram Vilas Paswan are also addressing several meetings at many different places.