In Chhattisgarh, 965 nominations have been filed in 72 constituencies, which are going to the poll in the second phase on the 19th of this month. 445 nominations were filed on Friday, the last day for filing nominations. AIR correspondent reports that for the second phase, scrutiny will take place today, while nomination papers can be withdrawn till Monday. Campaigning has picked up for the first phase of Assembly elections covering 18 constituencies. 143 candidates are in the fray. These constituencies will go to polls on the 11th.

The Election Commission has permitted shifting of 167 polling stations in tribal Bastar region to different places as concerns were raised about security and accessibility.

Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, 36 nominations were filed in 19 districts of the state on the first day of filing of nominations on Friday. AIR correspondent reports that no nomination papers filed in the remaining 32 districts.