LAHAN, May 17: Tensions have risen in Laxmipur Pattari Rural Municipality-4 of Siraha after more votes were found in the ballot boxes than the total number of votes cast. As many as 823 more votes were found in the ballot box, which was more than the total votes cast in Ward 4 of the rural municipality.

According to Devi Subedi, Election Officer of the rural municipality, there were 3215 voters in the ward and 2392 of them cast their votes in the May 13 local polls. However, while counting the votes, 3163 valid and 52 invalid votes were found and the situation became tense after more votes were found in the ballot box than total number of votes cast. "It is being investigated if some voters have been registered twice or some were given two or more ballot papers. A double entry might have taken place while employees were sleeping at night,” she said.

"Stones are being pelted at the polling station of Laxmipur Pattari at present. Some policemen are injured,” said Chief District Officer Lalbabu Kawadi, "We are trying to bring the situation under control by restraining ourselves. Action will be taken against those found guilty."

Ram Ballav Shah of the Federal Socialist Forum was elected as the chairperson in the local level election of 2017 in this rural municipality. This time, Kedarnath Yadav from Janata Samajwadi Party and Chaturananda Thakur from Nepali Congress are contesting for the post. According to the tally, Thakur has got 1098 votes while Yadav has got 365 votes.

 
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