Chhattisgarh polling begins in naxal-infested areas amidst violence

Polling began this morning in Naxal-infested area of Chhattisgarh amidst violence. In the first phase of polls today, 39 assembly seats are polling in the Bastar division of the state.

Although tight security arrangements have been made, there have been reports of violence in Dantewada. Five EVMs are also reportedly being looted. In the Naxal dominated areas, polling time has been reduced and will take place till 3 p.m.

Chief Minister Raman Singh, Leader of the Opposition Mahendra Karma and assembly Speaker Premprakash Pandey are some of the prominent candidates facing the polls today.

Overall, The fate of 383 candidates will be decided in this phase. Voting is taking place today for 39 out of 90 assembly constituencies of the state.

The state's subsidized rice scheme and Naxalism are pegged as key poll issues.