55 per cent polling in first phase of local body elections

Pondicherry, June 24 (UNI) An estimated 56 per cent of the over 1.52 lakh electorate had exercised their franchise by noon in the first phase of polling in the three phased local body elections in the union territory today.

Polling was peaceful with no incidents of any kind reported from any regions. Brisk polling was reported from Yanam, registering 66 per cent by noon followed by Karaikal with 59.15 and Mahe 48.9 per cent. Long queues were seen in front of several booths in all the three regions, according to reports received here.

The first phase polling will decide the fate of 962 candidates.

Adequate security arrangements have been made to maintain law and order during the elections, being held after a gap of 38 years.

(Ed: Pls pick up from earlier series).

UNI PAB VV LS HS1516