The death toll in the violence that marred the panchayat elections in West Bengal rose to 18 on July 9.
After 12 persons died during polling on July 8, six more deaths came to light on July 9. Five were political workers while one was a police officer who suffered cardiac arrest. Three of the victims were supporters of the ruling Trinamool Congress, killed in Cooch Behar, Uttar Dinajpur and Murshidabad districts. Twowere Congress supporters in Uttar Dinajpur.
Repolling in 600 booths where voting had to be suspended due to violence will be held on July 10. Murshidabad district, which has emerged as the epicentre of violence, will see repoll in 175 booths.
