Over 65% voter turnout in first Phase of Panchayat polls

Over 65.5 per cent voter turnout marked Wednesday's first phase of panchayat polls in Assam till 3 PM, which witnessed anomalies in ballot paper and claiming life of a person in Golaghat.

Addressing a press meet in Guwahati, Chief Election Commissioner said that polling was re-scheduled on Friday at one and two polling stations respectively under Biswanath Chariali and Gohpur due to unavoidable reasons. The numbers might increase later, informed CEO.

According to reports, total 43,515 candidates are in the fray in this phase. Polling was held amidst tight security in 14 thousand 77 polling booths. Official sources have confirmed that 734 candidates were declared elected unopposed. 380 were from BJP, 193 from Congress, 28 from AGP, 10 from AIUDF, one from CPM, five from Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) and 117 Independents.

The second phase of polling will be held on 9th of this month. Counting will be held on 12th of December.

(More details awaited)