Violence has again marred Bihar panchayat polls. Despite strict security measures to ensure peaceful polling in the final phase of the polls, covering 957 panchayats spread over 58 blocks, three persons have been killed and two injured since morning. In the first five phases held during the month, over 67 people including seven mukhiya candidates lost their lives in explosions, group clashes and police firing.
State director general of police R R Prasad said shoot-at-sight orders would continue to be in force against booth grabbers, while intense patrolling would be carried out between polling booths to prevent disturbances. Besides, security had already been tightened and police stations alerted in all the blocks where elections are to be held and static armed police personnel deployed in all the polling centres, he said.
Panchayat polls are being held in the state after a gap of about 23 years. Bureau Report