With the conclusion of the first phase of Manipur Assembly elections on Monday, the state recorded an average voter turnout of 78.30 per cent, as per the Election Commission of India. The government data shows that the highest voter turnout of 84.25 per cent was witnessed in Imphal West, followed by 83.38 per cent in Kangpokpi. Other districts like Imphal East and Bishnupur recorded an average voter turnout of 76.64 per cent and 74.25 per cent respectively. The lowest voter turnout of 71.53 per cent was recorded in Churachandpur.
Thirty-eight of the states 60 seats voted amid tight security in the troubled northeastern state of Manipur, where the BJP-led alliance is hoping for a second term in power in a multi-cornered contest.
The first phase of polls covers 29 seats in Manipur's valley districts -- Imphal West, Imphal East, and Bishnupur. The rest are in the hill districts of Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Pherzawl.
Besides the BJP and the Congress, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma's National People's Party is also in the fray this time, contesting 38 seats.