UP polls today

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The Election Commission (EC) has completed all preparations for holding the elections to the Union Parishads (UPs) in the coastal regions, where the polls start today (Tuesday), reports UNB. Talking to the journalists at the Election Commission Secretariat Monday, Election Commissioner M Sohul Hussain said the UP elections beginning tomorrow in the coastal regions would be held in a non-partisan manner. The Commission has decided to hold the polls in a free and fair manner, he said, adding that the situation in the election areas remains good, according to information received here. "All preparations have already been completed. I hope the polls will be held in a free and fair manner," the Commissioner said. On February 24, the Election Commission announced the schedule for 696 union parishad elections but the EC has postponed polling in some 16 Unions due to the verdict of courts, in seven unions for incomplete voter list, and in three unions due to unsuitable atmosphere.