New Delhi: An estimated 72 per cent of nearly 6 lakh voters excercised their franchise in the first phase of Manipur Assembly elections on Thursday.
As many as 19 constituencies in the insurgency-infested districts of Thoubal, Ukhrul and Senapati went to polls in the first of the three-phase elections to elect the 60-member Assembly in the state. There was no major incidents of violence during the polls.
"Preliminary estimates indicate that 72 per cent voters exercised their franchise," state election commission officials said. The fate of 77 candidates, including Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, Speaker Manir Udin Sheikh and former finance minister Chungkhokai Doungel, have been sealed in the first phase of polls.
The officials claimed up to 99 per cent voting was recorded in some polling stations despite heavy morning showers.
"By and large, it was very peaceful with no incidents of major violence reported. Security arrangements were very tight," the official said.
In the second phase of election, polling will take place in 29 constituencies on February 14. The remaining 12 constituencies would go to polls February 23. Counting of votes will begin on February 27.
Chief Minister Ibobi Singh is contesting the elections from two constituencies - Thoubal and neighbouring Khangabok. Senior Manipur People's Party leader L Tomba Singh is pitted against the chief minister in Thoubal.
The elections are witnessing a straight content between the ruling Congress and its regional challenger, the MPP. The controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 has been dominating the agenda of all political parties.
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