Counting of votes for the two-phased Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections has begun this morning, amidst tight security.
Shimla, Dec 28 : Counting of votes for the two-phased Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections has begun this morning, amidst tight security.
The results will decide the fate of 336 candidates including 25 women, who are in the fray for 68 assembly seats in the state.
Important leaders whose fate will be unveiled today include Chief Minister Virbhadra singh from Rohru constituency, BJP's Chief Ministerial nominee Prem Kumar Dhumal from Bamson, Speaker G R Mussafir (Pacchad), Ministers Vidya stokes (Kumarsain), Kaul Singh Thakur (Drang) and Raj Kishan Guar (Kullu).
The final phase of polling was held on December 19. Around 67 percent of electorate exercised their franchise in the 65 constituencies.
In Kangra district, 65 per cent of electorate voted for 16 seats that are said to be crucial for both the Congress and the BJP. During 2003 Assembly polls, the Congress won 11 out of 16.
Jubalkhote Assembly Constituency registered highest turnout of 72.88 percent and the lowest was recorded in the state capital (55.42 percent).
In Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh's Rohru constituency, about 65 per cent of voters cast their votes.
The first phase of polling took place for the three seats of Bharmaur, Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur on November 14. Over 68 per cent polling was reported in this phase.
This time, the Congress and the BJP is facing tough competition from the BSP. Besides these three major parties, candidates include nominees from the LJP and one independent. Twelve candidates are in the fray in these three constituencies.
The term of the 68-member State Assembly is till March 9, 2008.
ANI