NEW DELHI — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged voters in the eastern state of Bihar to participate in elections while taking precautions against COVID-19.
The first phase of polling began in the state amid tight security and voting is underway in 71 constituencies spreading over 16 districts. Modi, in a message posted on social media, said, “Keep attention for two yards, wear a mask. Remember, first vote, then refreshment!” Elections in the state are scheduled to be held in three-phases amid tight security and COVID-19 guidelines in place. Counting of votes will be held on Nov. 10.
The country’s election commission has issued guidelines to be followed during the polling. Every person has been instructed to wear masks during election-related activities, and the election booths have been sanitized, according to officials. Bihar is the 11th most-affected state in India with 213,085 COVID-19 cases and 1,065 deaths. India is in the grip of COVID-19 and the cases are increasing with each passing day. The number of infections in the country reached 7,990,322 and death toll rose to 120,010.
