Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar has assured that the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections will be conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner, emphasizing the Election Commission of India's (ECI) zero tolerance for violence. His statements come in the wake of the murder of Jan Suraaj Party worker Dularchand Yadav during a campaign rally in Mokama on October 30.

Kumar, speaking to reporters in Kanpur, stated, "The Election Commission has zero tolerance towards violence. Bihar elections will be conducted in a completely peaceful, law-abiding, transparent manner, and all voters will have the opportunity to celebrate it as a festival." He expressed hope that voters would participate in large numbers, likening the elections to a celebration.

The elections in Bihar will take place in two phases, with the first phase on November 6 and the second on November 11. The counting of votes is scheduled for November 14. Kumar highlighted that the voters' list has been updated to ensure accuracy, aiming to eliminate fake names and include all genuine voters. He remarked, "It is our endeavor that the Bihar assembly polls become an example not only for the country but also for democracies in the world."

The context of Kumar's remarks is significant, as they follow the violent incident involving Yadav, who was shot during a confrontation between rival political groups. Anant Singh, the Janata Dal (United) candidate from Mokama, has been arrested in connection with the murder. The incident occurred while Piyush Priyadarshi, a candidate from the Jan Suraaj Party, was campaigning in the area. Yadav, a former RJD leader, was reportedly shot during an altercation between supporters of the two candidates.

As the election dates approach, the ECI is taking measures to ensure a safe and fair electoral process in Bihar, aiming to restore public confidence in the democratic process amidst recent violence.