South Asia News
Elections begin in India's most populous state
Feb 8, 2012, 10:34 GMT
New Delhi - Elections in India's most populous and politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh began Wednesday.
Local contests are being held in five Indian states and considered significant tests before national elections scheduled in 2014.
Thousands queued up outside polling booths across 10 districts in voting for 55 seats.
Nearly 112 million of the state's 200 million population are eligible to vote in the seven-phase elections that end March 3.
Uttar Pradesh is ruled by Chief Minister Mayawati, a low-caste Dalit leader, who faces a strong challenge from the regional Samajwadi Party.
The elections are also important for the Indian National Congress-led coalition - which leads the federal government - whose credibility has suffered after a series of corruption scandals arose.
Rahul Gandhi, the heir of the powerful Gandhi dynasty and tipped as a future prime minister, led the Congress party's state campaign.
Manipur, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Goa states also held elections. The results will be declared on March 6.
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