One killed in police firing during first phase of panchayat polls in Assam

At least one person was killed in a police firing during the first phase of panchayat polls in Assam on Wednesday.

The police later confirmed that a man armed with a machete weapon had charged at the voters during elections at Habial village in Assam’s Golaghat district following which the police fired at him leading to his death.

“The man was attacking voters and even charged at police personnel. We had no option but to resort to firing to restrain him and prevent injury to others,” a police officer stationed at the same polling booth where the incident occurred was quoted as saying by The Hindustan Times.

The man was immediately rushed to the hospital after he had taken two bullets, where he succumbed to his injuries.

He was later identified as Gyanendra Rajkhowa and was said to be suffering from mental disorder.

Meanwhile, the first phase of polling in 16 districts of Assam concluded today. According to the report in the national daily, a total of 43,515 candidates went to the polls. Elections were held at 14,077 stations.

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