605 candidates in fray for first phase Bihar poll

The nomination papers of 24 candidates were rejected after scrutiny today, leaving 605 nominees to fight for 49 seats in the October 12 first-phase Bihar Assembly election.
"The nomination papers of 24 candidates were rejected as their documents were not found proper during scrutiny," Additional Chief Electoral Officer (ACEO) R Laxmanan said.
The last date of withdrawal of candidature has been fixed for September 26 next, Laxmanan said.
Samastipur, Morwa, Mohiuddinagar and Jamui Assembly seats have the highest number of candidates in fray at 18, while Warsaliganj, Dhoraiya (SC), Sikandara (SC) have least number of candidates at eight each.
Forty-eight candidates filed their nomination papers for the October 16 second phase poll today, taking the total to 110 so far, the ACEO said.

Meanwhile, during search for unaccounted cash under enforcement of the model code of conduct, the authorities seized Rs 9.66 lakh from people in Supaul, Araria, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Begusari and Buxar district, an official release said.
In addition, 7,382 litres illicit liquor was seized from different places, while 18 arms/weapons, 88 explosives and 46 cartridges were recovered.