Kohima, Mar 3 : The campaigning for the single-phase Nagaland Assembly elections that are scheduled for March 5 ended this evening.

About 1.3 million voters are likely to decide the fate of 218 candidates, including four women, contesting for the 60 assembly seats.

The main contest is between the Nagaland People's Front (NPF) and the Congress. The Congress is contesting all the 60 seats while NPF is contesting from 56 seats.

The BJP and the NCP have fielded their candidates for 23 and 8 seats respectively.

Prominent leaders seeking re-elections include two former Chief Ministers Neiphiu Rio (NPF) and K L Chishi (Congress). CLP leader I Imkong will contest from Jamgpetkong constituency in Mokokchung District against NPF candidate Dr I Longri.

Security has been tightened to ensure free and fair polls. Besides the Nagaland Police, an additional 168 companies of paramilitary forces are being deployed in the State.

The counting of votes will take place on March 7. (ANI)