Eight killed in Panchayat election in Bihar, 68 per cent turnout

Patna, May 18 (UNI) At least eight people were killed and several injured in today's second phase of Bihar Panchayat election even as an estimated 68 per cent of voters exercised their franchise.

State Home Secretary Afzal Amanullah, however, confirmed only four poll-related deaths - three in Arwal district and one in Chapra district.

He said altogether 181 anti-socials and habitual offenders were arrested on charges of disturbing poll process and 12 rifles were recovered from their possession.

District reports quoting official sources mentioned four more deaths taking the toll to eight. Three people were killed while assembling bombs for election purpose in Jamui district.

One more person was killed while assembling bombs at Banbhoura village in Samastipur district.

A booth grabber was lynched by people near polling booth number 48 at Manjhi village in Saran district.

A policeman was shot dead by criminals during the polling in the district today.

Police said here that Vijay Singh was shot dead when criminals opened fire to grab booth 163 at Masadpur village under Kaler block area in the district. The policeman was deployed in the polling booth.

Two people were killed and six injured in a shoot-out at some polling booths in Kalaer block of Arwal district during the election.

Police said supporters of a particular group attacked 84, 85 and 86 booths at Parshurampur and fired indiscriminately, in which Radha Saw and Lal Mohan Sharma were killed.

The injured were rushed to the local hospital.

Polling was suspended in three booths after the incident.

UNI DH SJC PA VC2015