Bihar polls: 2nd phase voting ends in Naxal-hit districts

Amid tight security cover, polling began this morning in the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, spanning 32 constituencies spread over six Naxal-hit districts.

People wait in queue to cast their vote during the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections. (Source: Express Photo)

Voting began at 7 AM in all the seats and in view of the security threat, the voting time has been curtailed by one to two hours in as many as 23 constituencies.

Women arrive on a venue to cast their vote for Bihar polls. (Source: Express Photo)

Of all the phases, the second phase posed the greatest challenge to security personnel as all six districts - Kaimur, Rohtas, Arwal, Jehanabad, Aurangabad and Gaya - have been affected by Naxal violence one time or the other.

Women wait in queue at a venue to cast their vote for Bihar polls. (Source: Express Photo)

Additional Chief Electoral Officer R Lakshamanan said while voting starting at 7 AM in all 32 constituencies would end at 3 PM in 11 seats, and at 4 PM in 12 others. Only 9 seats would have scheduled voting from 7 AM to 5 PM.

People check their names at a polling venue to cast their vote for Bihar polls. (Source: Express Photo)

A total of 86,13,870 electors are expected to decide the fate of 456 candidates, 32 out of whom are women. There are 9,119 polling stations.

People stand in queue during the second phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections. (Source: Express Photo)

A total of 993 companies of Central paramilitary forces and state police have been deployed to ensure peaceful voting. Drones and five helicopter/UAV would keep surveillance to ward off any untoward incidents.

Women stand in queue at a polling station to cast their vote for Bihar polls. (Source: Express Photo)

For faster movement of security personnel and avoid greater casualties in the event of Naxal attacks, the security forces have decided to use motorbikes in large numbers. A total of 719 bikes would be in service for today's polling.

Hundreds of people stand in queue for casting their vote in the second phase of the Bihar Assembly Elections. (Source: Express Photo)

A total of 86,13,870 electors are expected to decide the fate of 456 candidates, 32 out of whom are women. There are 9,119 polling stations. (Source: Express Photo)