Imphal: Polling for the first phase Manipur elections in 38 Assembly constituencies began peacefully at 0700 hours this morning. The turnout was recorded at 10 per cent at 0800 hours which later rose to 21 per cent at 0900 hours. Officials said the percentage may be high as the turnout was good.
The first phase of elections will decide the fate of 168 candidates, including 38 of BJP, 37 of Congress, four of CPI, two of CPI-M and and 14 Independents. Altogether 5,44,050 male voters, 5,75,220 female, 5169 male service voters and 1915 female service voters are expected to exercise their franchise at 1643 polling stations spread across the 38 polling segments. An air ambulance (helicopter) has been kept on stand-by. The second phase of elections will be held on March 11 in 22 constituencies. (UNI)