86% voting in Manipur assembly election
Imphal — Colourfully decked-up men and women came out in huge numbers to mark their democratic choice, as over 86 per cent votes were cast amidst tight security in the second and final phase of the Manipur Assembly polls on Wednesday.
Polling was generally peaceful notwithstanding a few stray incidents in the 22 constituencies spread over six districts — Thoubal, Ukhrul, Chandel, Tamenglong, Kamjomg and Senapati, officials said.
Even before voting centres opened at 7am, people assembled before booths, and patiently stood for their turn — despite long queues at many places.
“The polling percentage was over 86,” said state chief electoral Officer V.K. Dewangan.
The voter turnout was 86.5 per cent in the first phase covering 38 constituencies on March 4.
Two tribal militants entered the Mantri Pantha polling station in Chandel district and damaged EVMs. They were overpowered by women voters and handed over to the authority. The K. Thel polling station in the same district was vandalised by some miscreants.
There were clashes between the Communist Party of India and the Congress workers in Wangjing Tentha in Thoubal district. Police had to resort to firing in the air to bring the situation under control.
In Ukhrul district, polling was stalled for some time in a booth following protest by a few voters. However polling officials managed to restore peace. Polling in some polling stations in Tamenglong district started several hours behind schedule as the EVMs developed technical defects. —