15 killed in Bihar Panchayat election, 60 per cent turnout

Patna, May 15 (UNI) At least 15 people were killed and 21, including a Circle Officer, injured in today's first phase Bihar Panchayat election even as an estimated 60 per cent of 55,67,041 voters exercised their franchise.

State Home Secretary Afzal Amanullah, however, confirmed only 12 deaths - five in Nawada, three in Chapra, two in Vaishali and one each in Gaya and Samastipur.

District reports quoting official sources said 15 people were killed in poll violence - five in Nawada district, three each in Vaishali and Saran districts, two in Gaya district and one each in Samastipur and Saharsa.

Mr Amanullah further said only 17 companies of the Central Para Military Forces were deployed in the first phase of the election as the remaining 27 companies could not reach on time.

He said the remaining companies would arrive before the second phase election.

The Home Secretary said police had to resort to firing at some places to foil attempts of trouble makers and habitual offenders.

He said 89 people were arrested for disrupting the poll process.

The state government had reserved 50 per cent seats in the Panchayat election for women.

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