Polling for the first phase of assembly elections in Jharkhand and Jammu and Kashmir is underway amidst tight security. In Jharkhand, polling is being held in 13 Assembly seats peacefully. Polling began at 7 am and it will continue till 3 pm at 3961 polling stations. Approximate 27 per cent voting was recorded in Chatra, 20 percent in Garhwa, 13 percent each in Daltenganj and Latehar, 11 per cent each in Panki, Chattarpur and Bishunpur and 9 per cent each in Gumla and Hussainabad seats till 9 am.

Nearly thirty three and half lakh voters will exercise their franchise to seal the fate of 199 candidates from different political parties and Independents in this phase today. AIR correspondent reports that administration has made all the necessary arrangements for peaceful poll and shoot- at- sight order has been issued for those who try to create violence and loot the booths.

In Jammu and Kashmir, polling is underway in 15 assembly segments at 1,787 polling booths. Polling began at 8 am and will continue till 4 pm These assembly segments include all four seats of Ladakh, five seats of Kashmir and six seats of Jammu region. All arrangements are in place for peaceful, free and fair elections. Meanwhile, Election Commission has banned the publication and dissemination of exit polls of any kind in poll-bound Jharkhand and Jammu and Kashmir.