New Delhi, Dec 7 (ANI): Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram today said that the security forces are geared to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling in tomorrow’s third phase of Jharkhand Assembly elections.

In a statement, he also appealed to the voters in Jharkhand to vote in large numbers.”I recall with satisfaction that in the first phase, the turnout was 53.1 per cent and in the second phase the turnout was 58.8 per cent. This was due to the administrative and security measures taken by the Election Commission. I am confident that the third phase also will witness an impressive turnout,” he said.

“The administration in Jharkhand and especially the security forces are geared to ensure that polling takes place in a free, fair and peaceful manner,” he added.

According to sources, despite tight security, efforts to disturb peace continue in the state. Polls for 26 Assembly seats were held on November 25 and 14 Assembly were held on December 2.

In third phase, elections will be held for seven seats, while 14 and 15 constituencies respectively will go for election in the fourth and the fifth phases.

Counting of votes will be held on December 23. (ANI)