Bhubaneswar: The third phase of simultaneous elections in Odisha concluded peacefully today, covering the parliamentary constituencies of Cuttack, Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Puri, Bhubaneswar, and 42 assembly segments falling under these constituencies.
CEO Nikunja Bihari Dhal, addressing the media, announced that the polling rate stood at 60 percent as of 5 p.m. He anticipated this percentage to rise further as the final tally is calculated post the completion of voting.
Voters from across the state showed remarkable enthusiasm and participation in this democratic exercise.
Expressing gratitude, Chief Electoral Officer Nikunj Bihari Dhal thanked all the voters for their significant contribution to the democratic process. He also extended his appreciation to the polling staff and security forces for their dedicated efforts in ensuring smooth polling procedures throughout the day.
Despite some initial challenges such as faulty EVM machines reported at a few polling booths in the morning, prompt actions were taken to replace them, ensuring uninterrupted voting processes.