Preparations begin in riot-hit Kandhamal for general elections

Kandhamal (Orissa), Apr 15 (ANI): Preparations are in full swing to hold general elections tomorrow in Orissa's Kandhamal District.

The camp for the distribution of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) saw the presiding officials turn out in large numbers to collect them.

The region, which was rocked by communal violence in 2008, is a sensitive area and has been put under high security to keep a check on any untoward incident during the polls.

"We are sending all presiding officers to their respective polling stations with vehicles. The Superintendent of Police and the DM are making arrangements for security. Special arrangements have been made for those living in relief camps," said Pradeep Mahapatra, sub collector, Kandhamal.

The run-up to the elections has been witnessing numerous cases of attacks by Maoists and other instances of clashes and killings. And the authorities are leaving no stones unturned to ensure smooth functioning during the polls.

Kandhamal had witnessed the killing of 38 Christians and the burning of several houses and churches during communal violence last year following the murder of VHP leader Laxmanananda Saraswati.

More than 25,000 Christians were forced to flee their homes after their houses were attacked. Thousands of people are still living in government relief camps. (ANI)