Voting has started in 18 seats in the Maoist-hit areas of Chhattisgarh under heavy security cover, flagging off the last round of assembly polls before next year's general elections. The remaining 72 constituencies will vote on November 20. The Raman Singh government, which has been in power for three consecutive terms, is seeking a fourth mandate. The Congress hopes to recapture power claiming huge anti-incumbency. Former Chief Minister Ajit Jogi's new party is also in fray, in alliance with Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party. The Congress, which failed to seal a deal with the Dalit powerhouse, fears the combination will dent its chances.