In Jharkhand, 40 to 45 per cent electorate had cast their votes till a short while ago in the first phase of Assembly elections. AIR correspondent reports that polling has been peaceful so far. Strict vigil is being maintained in the Maoist infested areas. Four helicopters have been pressed into service for aerial survey. Polling which started on a dull note picked up later. In this phase, polling is being held in 26 out of 81 constituencies in the state. 470 candidates including 212 independents and 34 women candidates are in the fray. 8,176 polling stations have been set up for an estimated 65 lakh electorate in today's polls. The Election Commission has appointed 41 observers and one thousand micro observers to monitor the election process. The second phase of voting will be held on the 2nd of the next month. Counting for the five-phase polling will be held on the 23rd of next month.