In Chhattisgarh, campaigning came to an end in 18 constituencies at 5 PM today with just two days left the first phase of Assembly polls. Campaigning reached a feverish pitch with deadline for canvassing nearing. Prime Minister and Senior Congress leader Dr. Manmohan Singh addressed a congress workers convention in Raipur this afternoon slaming the BJP Government there for the worsening law and order situation in Chhattishgargh. Majority of the 18 assembly constituencies that go to the polls in the first phase are in Maoist affected areas.

Amid Maoist call for boycott of polls, election officials have geared up to ensure smooth polling in these areas. Tight security arrangements are in place in all the constituencies. AIR correspondent, says, there are reports of Maoists stepping up their activities in tribal Bastar region. Four boats deployed to ferry the voters across Indiravati River in Barsoor area in Dantewada district were destroyed by the Maoists. More than 70,000 security forces have been deployed in entire Bastar division to ensure free and fair elections. The number of security forces deployed is almost double the number of security men engaged during the 2008 assembly elections. Eight helicopters have been deployed to airlift polling staff and materials in 192 polling stations across the division in the inaccessible areas. Besides, 167 polling stations have been shifted to safer locations. An air ambulance has been kept ready in Raipur to meet any exigency.

With the issue of notification for Assembly Polls in Delhi today, as many as 7 candidates filed their nominations on the first day of nomination process. It will continue till 16th of this month. Scrutiny will take place on 18th and candidates can withdraw their nominations till 20th. AIR correspondent reports that the polling for 70 member Assembly is scheduled to be held on 4th of next month and counting will take place on 8th.