EC Chief Gyanesh Kumar Vows Zero Tolerance on Violence as Five States Prepare for Assembly Polls

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has assured a level playing field and zero tolerance toward electoral malpractice as five states prepare for Assembly elections. Speaking ahead of the polls in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry, he said the Election Commission is committed to conducting one of the most transparent electoral exercises in independent India’s history.

In an interaction, Kumar reiterated that the Election Commission of India maintains “zero tolerance” toward violence, intimidation, or inducement of voters. He stressed that the commission's primary objective is to ensure that every elector can exercise their democratic right freely, without fear or undue influence during the polling process.

The assurance comes amid criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Trinamool Congress, which have raised concerns about the functioning of the commission and the neutrality of the electoral process. Despite the criticism, the poll body has maintained that it will adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and legal frameworks.

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Officials said detailed instructions have been issued to administrative and electoral authorities across the poll-bound states to ensure strict enforcement of election laws. Measures include preventing booth capturing, curbing illegal voting practices such as "chappa", and maintaining law and order throughout the election period.

The Commission has also directed state machinery to remain vigilant against any attempts to influence voters through coercion or inducements. Security arrangements are being strengthened, and monitoring mechanisms are expected to be intensified to detect and respond to violations swiftly.

With Assembly elections scheduled for April, the Election Commission’s emphasis on transparency and impartiality is aimed at reinforcing public trust in the democratic process. The upcoming polls across five diverse regions will serve as a crucial test of the Commission’s ability to deliver free and fair elections under heightened political scrutiny.

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