Patna, Sep 21 (IANS): The filing of nomination papers for the second phase of the Bihar assembly elections, slated to be held on October 16, began on Monday, an official said.

In the second phase, elections will be held in 32 of the 243 assembly constituencies.

The last date for filing nominations for the second phase is September 28. While the scrutiny of papers will be held on September 29, candidates can withdraw their nominations till October 1.

Additional Chief Electoral Officer R. Lakshamanan said here that the process for the five-phase assembly elections in Bihar began last week with filing of nomination papers for the first phase.

The constituencies going to polls in the second phase are in Gaya, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Arwal, Rohtas and Kaimur districts.

The main contest is between the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance and the grand alliance of Janata Dal-United, Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Congress.

Bihar will elect a new 243-member assembly in staggered polls to be held between October 12 and November 5. The counting of votes will be held on November 8.