Two fronts, BSP to take on Lalu

tna September 24, 2005

The notification for the first phase of the four-phase Assembly elections in Bihar was issued by Governor Buta Singh today. The first set of 61 constituencies will go to polls on October 18.

These constituencies are in the Naxalite-hit Patna, Rohtas, Kaimur, Buxar, Bhojpur, Aurangabad Jehanabad, Gaya, Arwal, Nawada, Jamui and Banka districts. The notification sets off the process of filing of nomination papers.

Nomination papers can be submitted till September 30 after which scrutiny begins on October 1. October 3 is the last date for withdrawal of nominations.

The polling will be spread over a month because of major religious festivals and also to ensure adequate security.

The Supreme Court is hearing a public interest petition filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (United) MLAs challenging the dissolution of the Assembly, alleging that the governor