An estimated 70 to 75 per cent of the electorate turned out on Wednesday to exercise its franchise in the election to the lone parliamentary seat in Nagaland. The election passed off peacefully barring stray incidents of violence.
Reports said in some rural assembly segments over 90 per cent turnout was recorded. The lowest turnout -- 60 per cent -- was recorded in Kohima district.
Electronic voting machines were damaged in the Tuyi assembly segment in Wokha district and Chozuba in Phek district when two groups clashed. The machines were immediately replaced.
There were reports of bogus voting and intimidation of voters from different parts of the state.
A large number of school children were seen in queues outside polling stations, particularly in Kohima and Dimapur.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, assembly speaker Kiyanilie Peseyie, former chief minister S C Jamir and Congress candidate K Asungba Sangtam were among the early voters.
Although there are five candidates in the fray, the main battle is between the ruling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland candidate Wangyuh Konyak and Sangtam.
