Clashes, low turnout mar Raipur South by-election
The outcome of this by-election is seen as a critical prelude to the upcoming municipal elections, with both parties keen to maintain their influence.
Chhattisgarh logged 72.51 per cent voting till 6 pm in the second phase of Lok Sabha elections across the constituencies of Rajnandgaon, Mahasamund and Kanker.
The keenly contested battle saw stalwarts from Congress and BJP, along with 41 other candidates, engaging in a democratic tussle for the approval of the 52,84,938 eligible voters.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the polls, over 2,22,000 security personnel were deployed.
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The polling was largely peaceful. However, disruptions were reported in some areas like Dallirajhara in Balod, where confusion arose over pre-cast votes.
A tragic incident occurred in Gariaband, where a jawan deployed for election duty succumbed to self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Allegations were also levied by Congress candidate Bhupesh Baghel in Rajnandgaon. He said: “Voters are complaining that the photos of other candidates were large and clear, while mine is small and comparatively unclear.”
In Mahasamund, the village of Gram Belar witnessed a boycott due to discontent over the relocation of a polling station.
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