Former cricketer Nayan Mongia casts his vote in Vadodara

Former Indian wicket-keeper Nayan Mongia today casted his vote in Vadodara's Akota area. He was accompanied by his wife Tanu Mongia, who also exercised her franchise. Speaking to ANI, Nayan said: "I am very happy that I have casted my vote. Keeping in mind, the theme of this election, I have voted." His wife, Tanu added: "Votes are very important for any candidate to win. If you want a good government, come out and vote."

Nayan Mongia

On being asked about whether the aggressive campaigning done by both Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) parties, help to sway the decision of the voters, Tanu said: "Yes, we, as voters get very confused about whom to vote. But, that is the speciality of a democracy. As he (Nayan) said earlier, keeping in mind about the theme of this year's elections, you have to use your head and then vote."

Else, there is a None of the Above (NOTA) button, if you are absolutely unsure and confused on whom to vote. I urge all to go out and vote in large numbers. Use your right, use your vote", she added. The second phase of voting in Gujarat is underway in 93 constituencies across 14 districts in north and central Gujarat.

The voting began at 8 a.m today and will continue till 5 p.m in more than 25,000 polling stations. A total of 851 candidates are in the fray and over 2.22 lakh people will take part in the election to decide their fate.

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded 93 candidates for this phase, while Congress has fielded 91 of them. The voter turnout in the first phase of the polls was 68 percent. As of 12 p.m, the voter turnout was 39 percent. Counting of votes and the results would be declared on December 18.

In the 2012 assembly polls, the BJP won 115 seats, while the Congress bagged 61 seats.