Srinagar: The death toll in Srinagar clashes has climbed to 6 after security forces opened fire on mobs attacking polling stations and poll personnel in Kashmir’s Budgam district.
Voting was affected in urban areas as the polling staff and security forces bore the brunt of stone-pelting incidents reported from across the district.
Army was called out in aid of the state administration in Gadura area after a mob rained stones at polling stations and tried to burn down a building where a booth was located, officials said, adding that petrol bombs were hurled at the booth as well as the security forces guarding it.
Jammu and Kashmir is one of the nine states, where by-elections for assembly and parliamentary seats are being held today.
In Kashmir, polling is being held for Srinagar parliamentary seat amid boycott call by separatists.
Violence was also reported from Ater, Madhya Pradesh, in which several people were said to be injured.
Two poll booths in Ater reportedly witnessed violence. Cars were damaged and gunshots were heard. Several people were said to be injured.
Elections will be held in 3 more states on April 12.
The counting of votes will take place on April 13 and April 15.
