Manipur Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pradeep Jha has provided an overview of the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state. Jha said polling went on smoothly at most of the designated polling stations, with significant turnout witnessed. Initial reports estimate the voting percentage to be around 68 per cent, though Jha estimates that the figure may increase after the final reports are compiled from all the districts. Although overall polling remained peaceful, sporadic incidents were reported in some districts. These incidents included incidents of damage to electronic voting machines (EVMs) and reports of criminal intimidation or attempts to influence voters.
Jha emphasized that election officials are actively seeking detailed reports from the districts concerned and assured that appropriate action will be taken upon receipt of these reports. Looking ahead, Jha said preparations are already underway for the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections to be held on April 26. It is noteworthy that the first phase of Lok Sabha elections which began at 7 am today, April 19, witnessed some incidents of violence and allegations of malpractice by some section of voters in the state of Manipur.
Manipur Police has arrested three people for their involvement in a firing incident near a polling booth in Imphal East district. An officer gave this information. The three arrested persons were involved in the firing incident at Moirangkampu Sazeb in Imphal East district, the official said. One person was injured in this incident on Friday. He said the three accused fled from the spot in a four-wheeler after the firing and were arrested on Friday evening, less than five kilometers from the incident site.
