Bihar civic polls Phase II today

By Our Staff Correspondent

PATNA, APRIL 14. The State Government has beefed up security for the second phase of panchayat elections tomorrow, covering 1647 panchayats in 108 blocks spread over 37 districts.

The Government reviewed the situation in the light of the violence during the first phase of elections held last Wednesday in which the official death toll was put at 13 and the post- election repercussions.

Top officials have rushed to Purnia district, where the battle for supremacy between criminal gangs has once again reached a flash point thanks to the panchayat elections.

At several places police conducted flag marches today to instill confidence among the voters, though the turnout in the first phase of elections was around 70 per cent. The Government has already issued shoot at sight orders and, to prevent a recurrence of the first phase experience, issued directive to the district officials to strictly deal with those trying to loot booths.

The Government has strengthened the armed capability of its forces by borrowing an additional 5000 rifles from Madhya Pradesh.

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Section  : Other States
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