867 candidates in fray for first phase polls in UP

Uttar Pradesh, altogether 867 candidates are in the fray in 55 constituencies spread over 10 districts from Lucknow , Faizabad, Devipatan and Basti divisions for the first phase of Assembly elections with withdrawal of nominations ending. Polling will be held on February 8 in this phase. AIR Lucknow correspondent reports that a total of 994 candidates had filed their nominations for the first phase, out of which papers of 61 were rejected during scrutiny and 66 candidates have withdrawn their nominations. Most of the major political parties including BSP, BJP, Congress and Samajwadi Party have fielded their nominees in all segments going for poll in first phase. Scrutiny of the nomination papers filed for the second phase elections will be taking place today. A total of 1222 candidates have filed their nominations. Polling would be held on February 11 in 59 segments spread over 9 districts from Varanasi, Azamgarh, Gorakhpur and Basti divisions in this phase. In the third phase of elections in 56 assembly segments a total of 58 candidates have filed their nominations so far where polling is scheduled on February 15. The last date for filing of nominations for phase three is January 28. Poll authorities have lodged 70 FIRs while taking actions on more than 6 thousand complaints for violation of model code of conduct across the state. Surveillance teams and flying squads have recovered more than 5 lakhs rupees in Lucknow and Muzaffarnagar districts. Communist Party of India ML has released its election manifesto. Party has appealed to the people not to vote for the corrupt leaders or political parties and teach the communal forces a lesson in the elections. The party is contesting 43 assembly seats. The Samajwadi Party has replaced its four more candidates from Mathura , Khair, Baldev and Ghatampur constituencies. Rashtriya Lok Dal has announced four more candidates. Party has been announced 48 candidates for assembly elections so far.