By voting massively, Arunachal Pradesh, it seems, has sent out a stern message to China.
Over 72 per cent voters cast votes in the state Assembly elections on a day when China protested Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's visit to the north-eastern state. Sources also indicate the voting percentage may go up to 75 per cent in the final count.
Voters came out in large numbers to exercise their franchise over 2000 polling stations all over the state. According to an official source, over 72 per cent cast their votes in the hill state when reports last came in. The polling percentage may go up to 75 as reports from some remote poling stations are still being awaited. Polling was by and large peace in the hill state, barring a few sporadic incidents of violence.