Guwahati, April 22: Despite all-out campaign by political parties, the polling for the Guwahati Civic Polls was dismal with only about 50 percent turning up to exercise their franchise, that too after polls were held after 9 long years.
Stage was all set for elections to Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) on Friday, with EVMs being used for all 60 wards under GMC for the first time.
This poll battle is seen as the first ever direct political contest between the ruling BJP and AAP which is attempting to make inroads into Assam and Northeast. Political parties have gone all out to woo the voters, promising a flood-free and crime-free city with piped water to all households and all other basic civic amenities.
Altogether 197 candidates are in fray in 57 wards, while Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates in three wards have already been elected uncontested.
A total electorate of 7,96,829, comprising 3,96,891 males, 3,99,911 females and 27 of the third gender, were eligible to exercise their franchise in 789 polling stations spread across the 60 wards.
Counting of votes will be held on April 24.
