'Will ensure polls free of fear, violence & intimidation ': CEC Gyanesh Kumar ahead of Bengal elections

NEW DELHI: Chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar asserted that the poll panel will “leave no stone unturned” to ensure free and fair elections in West Bengal, outlining a framework aimed at curbing malpractices and boosting voter confidence.In a message to officials overseeing the elections on Monday, Kumar said the Election Commission of India is committed to conducting polls that are “free of fear, violence, intimidation and inducements,” emphasising on a zero-tolerance approach towards any electoral malpractice. He also stressed that no government functionary should influence the electoral process. “No employee of the state government, local bodies or autonomous bodies would be allowed to influence the electoral process in any manner,” Kumar said.Calling on voters to participate actively, he urged citizens to cast their votes without fear. “Every elector of West Bengal should exercise his or her vote fearlessly,” he said.Invoking the broader democratic spirit, Kumar described the elections as a celebration of democracy, remarking, “Chunav ka parv, West Bengal ka garv.”The elections to the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.