70 per cent voting in Malegaon civic polls

Nasik, May 27 (UNI) Around 70 per cent voting was recorded in the Malegaon Municipal Corporation (MMC) polls today.

Despite the a reputation of being a sensitive town, assailed for its 'communal riots', the city recorded a high percentage of voting as voters overcame all odds including the scorching heat to exercise their franchise.

Elections were held for 71 wards. As many as 35 per cent candidates contested these elections. Though the main contest was between the ruling Congress, Janata Dal and the Third Front formed by the Maulavis, there were a total of 12 parties and 59 independents contesting the election, said Chief Election Officer Kalyan Kelkar.

The highlight of the election was the formation of the 'Teesra Mahaj' by the maulavis and their participation, the first instance in the country.

However, sporadic incidents of violence were reported from city's Ayeshanagar and other areas, in which six persons were injured.

Counting of votes will be held tomorrow at Chhatrapati Shivaji Gymkhana, Shriramnagar. The counting will begin at 0900 hrs. It will be held in two phases. In the first phase, counting of votes will be held for ward no 1 to 36 while in the second phase, counting of votes for ward no 37 to 71 will be held.

The results are expected in 2-3 hours as electronic voting machines (EVM's) will be used in the process. Elaborate security arrangements are in place for the counting too.

UNI