Patna: Security was tightened across the state ahead the first phase of polling in local body elections set for on Wednesday in Bihar after Maoists threatened to disrupt the polling process.
This time again, the rebels, who operate in large parts of the state, called for an election boycott.
In the first phase, polling will be held in 57 blocks across 37 districts of Bihar. The votes are being cast for 28,639 posts in local bodies, with 143,195 candidates in the running.
But the fear of rebels and criminals has caused panic amongst candidates and voters alike.
Maoists have gone on the rampage as the poll draws closer. Angry rebels have killed villagers, beat up candidates, blasted mobile phone towers and torched public transport vehicles to protest against the conduct of panchayat (local bodies') elections in Bihar.
Foolproof
"Our security arrangements are foolproof, and anyone who try to disrupt the polling process will be sternly dealt with," Bihar's director-general of police Neelmani announced on Tuesday.
He said a heavy deployment of police officers was underway to ensure voters reach polling booths unhindered and cast their votes freely. "There is nothing to worry for the voters," Neelmani said.
Police officers have also launched a special drive against criminals, making them sign bonds undertaking that they will not disturb the poll process.
This time again, the rebels, who operate in large parts of the state, called for an election boycott.
In the first phase, polling will be held in 57 blocks across 37 districts of Bihar. The votes are being cast for 28,639 posts in local bodies, with 143,195 candidates in the running.
But the fear of rebels and criminals has caused panic amongst candidates and voters alike.
Maoists have gone on the rampage as the poll draws closer. Angry rebels have killed villagers, beat up candidates, blasted mobile phone towers and torched public transport vehicles to protest against the conduct of panchayat (local bodies') elections in Bihar.
Foolproof
"Our security arrangements are foolproof, and anyone who try to disrupt the polling process will be sternly dealt with," Bihar's director-general of police Neelmani announced on Tuesday.
He said a heavy deployment of police officers was underway to ensure voters reach polling booths unhindered and cast their votes freely. "There is nothing to worry for the voters," Neelmani said.
Police officers have also launched a special drive against criminals, making them sign bonds undertaking that they will not disturb the poll process.
