Munugode witnesses heavy poll percentage

MUNUGODE: People of all ages turned out in large numbers to exercise their franchise amidst tight security arrangements in Munugode on Thursday. The enthusiasm amongst the electorate seemed brimming with long serpentine queues in front of many polling stations even after 6pm, the cut off time for the closure of polling.

As per the ECI rules those who were in the queue at 6 pm would be allowed to vote. While 77.5 percent of votes were polled till 5 pm, the overall poll percentage may shoot up beyond 82. However, the accurate number would be available only after consolidation.

No major incidents were reported during the polling and there would be no need for any repolling as of now, according to Chief Electoral Officer of Telangana Vikas Raj.

Speaking to the media, Vikas Raj said, "We seized 6,100 litre of liquor, the excise department conducted 599 raids and 199 FIRs were lodged. Rs 8.27 cr total value of material including cash, 3.94 kg gold and other materials were also found during campaigning. Total 56 cases were registered and 98 complaints were received on outsiders who were distributing cash and 70 people were sent out of the constituency."

The CEO also said that a review meeting would be conducted with the District Collector, Superintendent of Police, Returning Officer and other polling officials on Friday.

Counting of votes would commence at 8 am on Sunday. Reportedly, paper ballots would be counted before opening the Electronic Voting Machines.