The fifth phase of assembly elections is underway in Uttar Pradesh and voting is taking place for 51 constituencies spread over 12 districts of Terai and eastern regions in this phase. These districts are Amethi, Sultanpur, Faizabad, Barabanki, Ambedkarnagar, Bahraich, Shravasti, Balrampur, Gonda, Basti, Siddharthnagar and Sant Kabir Nagar.
Polling, which started at 7 AM, will end at 5 PM. A total of 607 candidates including 40 women are in the fray. BJP is contesting 50 seats as it has left one seat for its ally Apna Dal. BSP has fielded its candidates at 51 seats, whereas Samajwadi Party is contesting 43 seats and its ally Congress 14 seats.
Elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure free and fair polls. Six police observers have been deployed to keep eyes on security arrangements. Indo-Nepal, inter district and inter-state borders have been sealed. Central forces conducted flag march in sensitive areas yesterday to instill confidence among voters.
Over 1,600 hamlets and over 2,300 polling stations have been identified as sensitive and critical and special security measures have been made in these localities. Polling process is being webcast live from 1792 polling stations.