Deadline to file nominations for Phase 2 over, no Oppn pact yet

Nominations for the crucial second phase of assembly elections in Bihar closed on Tuesday as it became clear that the Opposition Grand Alliance had fielded more than one candidate on at least II seats.

- Anirban Guha Roy

The RJD is contesting on 143 seats, the Congress on 60, VIP on 15, the three Left parties on 30 and Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) on two seats.

(SANTOSH KUMAR/HT PHOTO)

The last day for withdrawal of nominations for the second phase, where 122 seats go to the polls on November Il, is October 23. In the first phase, where 121 seats go to the polls on November 6, there are five seats with more than one candidate from the Grand Alliance.

“There are still many seats in the first phase where a ‘friendly fight’ cannot be ruled out unless there is certain understanding among partners in the next few days. The last date of withdrawal for the first phase is already over,” said a senior Grand Alliance leader, seeking anonymity.

On Monday, Rashtriya Janata Dal's (RJD) Sasaram candidate Satyendra Sah was arrested by Jharkhand Police after filing his nomination for the elections. Officials said that Sah was arrested by police as a non-bailable warrant (NBW) was issued against him in connection with a 2004 dacoity case.