35 per cent turnout in Simaria Assembly bypoll

Chatra, Feb 4 (UNI) Amidst tight security bandobast, about 35 per cent of an estimated 2.4 lakh voters today exercised their democratic rights in the byelection to naxal-dominated Simaria Assembly seat.

Altogether 14 candidates were in the fray.

The bypoll was necessitated following the death of BJP's Upendra Nath Das, whose son was given the party ticket to retain the seat and was facing tough contest from three other candidates - the JMM and RJD-backed CPI, Congress and Jharkhand Vikash Morcha (Democratic).

Polling began on a dull note as about six per cent turnout was recorded till 1000 hrs and the low polling might spring a surprise winner stunning many a political pundits.

Superintendent of Police Akhilesh kumar Jha said there was no untoward incident during the poll.

Several people, mainly from the rural areas, faced a lot of problem as they out of ignorance did not bring required documents to support their identity leading to poor voting, a booth manager of a political party claimed.

Altogether 26 companies of para military forces were deployed and aerial vigil was made to ensure smooth polling. Besides, state police personnel were deployed in a large number.

About 95 per cent of total 226 polling centres had been identified as sensitive.

Among prominent candiates were Kumar Ujjwal (BJP), Ramchandra Ram (CPI), Yogendra Baitha (Cong) and Jaiprakash Bhokta (JVM).

UNI XC-PRS SJC RN1710