UP polls: PM Modi appeals to voters to makefestival of democracy a success

As the voting for the fourth phase of Uttar Pradesh assembly election began on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people of the politically crucial state to cast their vote.

"Today is the fourth phase of Uttar Pradesh elections. I request the voters to use their voting rights and make the festival of democracy a success," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

Voting for the UP polls began in 53 constituencies spread over 12 districts including the Bundelkhand region and Raebareli.

Other districts going to polls in this phase are Allahabad, Chitrakoot, Banda, Fatehpur, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jhansi, Kaushambi, Lalitpur, Mahoba, Pratapgarh. Voting, which started at 7 a.m.,and will end at 5 p.m.

Elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure free and fair polling. Inter district and inter-state borders have been sealed.

Patrolling by security forces has been intensified in poll bound areas. Most of the polling centers are manned by Central Para Military Forces.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is contesting 48 seats out of 53. It has left 6 seats for its ally Apana Dal. Bahujana Samaj Party (BSP) has fielded its nominees in all segments, while Samajawadi Party (SP) is contesting 30 seats and its ally Congress 25.