NDA, Oppn on same page over holding polls in max 2 phases

BOTH the ruling NDA and Opposition parties in Bihar Saturday demanded that the Election Commission (EC) hold assembly elections in a maximum of two phases and immediately after the Chhath festival to increase participation of voters.

- RAMASHANKAR @Patna

Representatives of all parties submitted their suggestions before a three-member EC team, headed by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, during a review meeting held in Patna. They also demanded free, fair and peaceful elections. BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal said his party has demanded holding of polls in a maximum of two phases. “We have also urged the EC to ensure the identification of burqa-clad women voters by officials so that genuine voters get to exercise their franchise,” Jaiswal said.