With just two days left the first phase of Assembly polls in Chhattisgarh, campaigning came to an end in 13 constituencies at 3 PM today. Campaigning also reached a feverish pitch in another five constituencies before the close of the deadline for canvassing at 5 PM this evening. Prime Minister and Senior Congress leader Dr. Manmohan Singh addressed a congress workers convention in Raipur this afternoon slamming the BJP Government there for the worsening law and order situation in Chhattisgarh. In all 18 constituencies will go to polls in the first phase. Majority of these segments 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. 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.
Filing of nomination has begun for 70 member Delhi Assembly elections. The nomination process began today with the issue of notification for polls and it will continue till 16th of this month. Scrutiny will take place on 18th and candidates can withdraw their nominations till 20th. The polling is scheduled to be held on 4th of next month and counting will take place on 8th.
AIR correspondent reports that the Delhi Chief Electoral Office has made elaborate arrangements for the nomination filing. Nomination centers has been established at all districts headquarters in the national capital to deal with the rush of nomination filing. The Chief Electoral Office has deployed General observers in all constitutes besides 18 expenditure Observers to keep a close watch on the violators of Model Code of Conduct to ensure free and fair elections.
