Monday's polls in the politically crucial northern state of Punjab were expected to see a keen contest between its ruling coalition - led by the regional Shiromani Akali Dal party - and Congress, which is the main opposition in the state.

BBC: India state elections held in Punjab and Uttarakhand

The country's main Sikh political party, the Shiromani Akali Dal, held a demonstration in New Delhi's embassy district Monday to protest.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The government of Indira Gandhi dithered for months before the main Sikh political party, the moderate Akali Dal, threatened to disrupt grain supplies from the wheat-rich state.

CNN: Looking Back

Its roots lay in a campaign by the Akali Dal, the Sikhs' main political party.

ECONOMIST: A martyr is declared in Punjab