Ahead of polls, security beefed up in three Maoist-hit districts in Madhya Pradesh

Security arrangements have been heightened in Balaghat, Mandla, and Dindori districts in Madhya Pradesh, which are considered to be Maoist affected, ahead of the upcoming elections. Polling in these districts will only be held till 3 pm instead of the usual 6 pm. This comes after the killing of an ex-sarpanch by Maoists in Balaghat last week. Additional paramilitary forces have been requested to ensure security during the elections. Similar security measures have been taken in other districts affected by Maoist activities in Chhattisgarh.