Despite Maoists warning to boycott the Assembly bypoll at Umerkote in Naxal-affected Nabrangpur district here,over 70 per cent of the 1.65 lakh voters cast their ballot peacefully. The bypoll was necessitated following the death of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA Jagabandhu Majhi who was gunned down by Maoists. On September 24,a wheel-chair-bound Majhi and his personal security officer were gunned down by suspected Maoists in a public meeting while he was distributing land pattas in a village. Those contesting in the tribal-dominated segment are Dharmu Gond (BJP),Subas Gond (BJD) and Jatindra Gond (Congress). Political observers say the bypoll fight is mainly between Dharmu and Subas. Counting of votes will be held on December 4.
