Brisk voting with a turnout of over 80 per was recorded in the first phase of Manipur Assembly elections, 2017 on Saturday.
The first phase was held in 38 constituencies for which 1,643 polling stations were set up. Voting was held in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Phezerol districts.
Officials said the final figure would go higher as this was only the preliminary report at 3 pm when polling officially ended.
There are 5,44,050 male and 5,75,220 female voters for the first phase polling. 168 candidates are in the fray in the first phase.
Polling was peaceful except for some minor incidents. People’s Resurgence Justice Alliance (PRJA) convener Erendro Leichombam was allegedly attacked by unknown persons at Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai in Imphal. Erendro, who is the lone male candidate of PRJA, sustained minor injury and was rushed to RIMS hospital. He was later discharged after providing first aid.
Human rights activist Irom Sharmila was among the voters who casts votes early in the morning. She cast her vote at Khurai Assembly constituency.
While the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded 38 candidates, the ruling Congress has fielded 37 candidates in the first phase.
The election is seen as a close fight between the Okram Ibobi Singh-led Congress government and the BJP. The Congress has been in power in the state for the last 15 years.
The second phase of polling will be held on March 8 and results will be declared on March 11.
(With inputs from Agencies)