Moderate to brisk polling has been reported in the bye-polls in eight States across the country. Barring a few minor incidents, the polling is so far peaceful. Our Correspondents covering the poll report that voters in large numbers lined up in front of polling stations before the voting began to exercise their right of franchise.
In Andhra Pradesh, the polling is in progress in Nellore Lok Sabha and 18 Assembly bye-elections. The polling was delayed by 10 minutes due to technical snags in the Electronic Voting Machines at some polling stations.
About 46 lakh 13 thousand voters are expected to exercise their franchise. 5413 polling stations have been set up for the by-poll.
Taking all possible measures to ensure free and fair bye-polls, the election authorities have put in place arrangements for webcasting from all the polling stations. The bye-polls are being held following resignation of sitting MP and disqualification of 17 MLAs. Tirupati Assembly seat fell vacant following actor-turned politician Chiranjeevi was elected for the Rajya Sabha.
In Madhya Pradesh, over 15 per cent polling has been reported during early three hours in Maheshwar legislative assembly segment by-election. The polling began at 8 am and is by and large peaceful so far.
In Tamil Nadu, the polling for Pudukottai Assembly byelection started today in a dull note. 40 per cent votes were polled when reports last came in. The polling which started at 8 AM will end at 5 PM .
In Maharashtra Polling for Kej assembly by poll in Beed district began this morning amid tight security arrangements. The bypoll has been neccesitated due to death of former NCP minister Vimal Mundada.
In West Bengal, peaceful voting is on for the bye-elections in Bankura and Daspur Assembly seats. The State Chief Electoral Officer, Mr.Sunil Gupta told AIR that 50 per cent votes were cast till 1 p.m. . Our Kolkata Correspondent Arijit Chakraborty reports that a large number of people are seen waiting in front of polling booths despite scorching heat.
The seats had fallen vacant following death of two Trinamool Congress Legislators.
