The CPN-UML organised a rally in Bharatpur, Chitwan, on Tuesday demanding immediate resumption of vote counting process in Metropolitan.The counting had stopped after CPN (Maoist Center) cadres allegedly tore ballot papers from Bharatpur-19.

The rally marched through Pulchowk, Lions Chowk, Chaubis Kothi and converted into a corner assembly near the vote counting venue.

The venue has been sealed and security has been stepped up in the area.

Chitwan's chief election officer Kabi Prasad Neupane said they have informed about the incident to the Election Commission and any further process will be based on the EC's directive.

UML's Devi Gyawali and CPN (MC)'s Renu Dahal are in the hunt for the Bharatpur Metropolitan City mayoral post. Gyawali lead Dahal by 733 before the counting was halted.

The Nepali Congress and CPN (MC) coalition, however, has demanded re-election in Bharatpur-19.