Nandigram, May 11 : The Communist Party of India-Marxist cadres today prevented villagers from casting their votes at three villages of trouble-torn Nandigram, while polling in the first phase of civic elections was peaceful in four other districts.

"CPI-M cadres have jammed booths in the villages of Takapora, Kamalpur and Sonachura. Voters are being intimidated so that they do not venture out to cast votes," Trinamool Congress leader Sammad said.

"We have faith in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel only, but they are not being allowed to work properly here. If it continues, election here will turn into a farce," Sammad said.

CPI-M leaders claimed that so far election in Nandigram had been peaceful and they had requested voters and party members to show restraint.

Apart from trouble-torn Nandigram, elections to panchayat institutions began amid tight security in Purulia, Bankura and West Midnapore districts.

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) West Bengal, Raj Kanojia, said in Kolkata that special security arrangement, including deployment of CRPF personnel had been made at Nandigram.

A day in advance, paramilitary personnel had intensified patrolling in the trouble-torn area.

In the first phase, polling is being held in five of 18 districts. Second and third phase of polls would take place on May 14 and 18. (ANI)