Twelve Independent groups place deposits for Batticaloa polls

Rasika SOMARATHNA

Twelve Independent groups have so far placed deposits to contest the forthcoming Local Government Elections in the Batticaloa district, which is expected to be held in February.

The deadline for accepting nominations for the polls is expected to expire at 12 noon on the coming Friday, January 25.

Elections are due to be held for nine local bodies and the major parties are expected to file nominations in the coming days.

Meanwhile, a vigilant group to prevent violence has been formed in Batticaloa, comprising religious leaders, representatives of political parties etc. According to local authorities security too has been beefed up to prevent violence and intimidation.

The latest round of talks held with the intention of having a free and fair poll has been attended by a number of parties including the TMVP, sources said.