Sunday, April 2 2006 15:04 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Guwahati: Amidst tight security, the stage is set for the first phase of assembly polls in 65 of the 126 constituencies in Assam tomorrow (Apr 3, 2006) which will decide the fate of several heavyweights, including Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

Campaigning was marked by absence of violence as the People's Consultative Committee set up by the Ulfa, which has spearheaded the movemenent for sovereignity in the state, is engaged in peace talks with the Centre. It has for the first time abstained from calling a poll boycott and has announced that it will maintain equidistance from all political parties.

The ULFA has also called for people to vote for parties which are committed on the issue of Assam's sovereignty.

Security measures are, however, tight with 300 additional companies of central forces deployed near polling booths for both phases of polls.

The international border running along the state has been sealed to prevent entry of Bangladeshis and also ISI operatives, who according to intelligence reports were out to create problems during elections in Assam.

Besides, the Assam police battalion personnel have been already deployed near vital public installations as OIL and railway tracks. The army, however, would not be specifically used for poll work but deployed in vulnerable areas.

The first phase of polls in Assam will decide the fate of 545 candidates 505 male and 40 women candidates with BJP putting up the highest number of 65 candidates, followed by 64 from Congress, 54 from AGP, 25 from NCP and eight each from CPI and CPI (M).