Campaign picks up for sixth phase of polls in Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 14 (ANI): Campaigning is hard for the sixth phase of Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir.

In this phase, polling will be held on December 17 in ten constituencies of Anantnag and Kulgam districts.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh is scheduled to address a rally in Shangas, Anantnag today.

Monday is the last day for campaigning.

The seventh phase of polls will be held on December 24.

Approximately 57 per cent voters exercised their franchise in the fifth phase on Saturday. Polling took place in eleven constituencies in the districts of Kathua, Shopian and Pulwama.

An estimated 55 per cent of the 14 lakh electorate exercised their franchise in the fourth phase of polling on December 7.

Despite the separatists call for the election boycott, the first phase of the elections recorded 64 per cent participation. At least 65 per cent voting was recorded during the second phase of polling. In the first four phases, the number of candidates showed a marked increase this time as compared to last time. In the Kashmir division the number has gone up to more than double. The results will be declared on December 28. (ANI)