Maoist violence kills 17

THE first day of polling in India’s general election was disrupted by Maoist violence that left at least 17 people dead.

Voting ended early in all constituencies affected by rebel violence with the remaining areas shut by 5pm local time (1.30pm BST) yesterday. The first of five phases of parliamentary elections was held in 17 states across the country.

The rebels struck early yesterday morning in the state of Jharkand, using landmines that killed at least seven people including five security personnel on election duty, deputy commissioner Sarvendu Tathagat said.