Amid speculation and scattered attempts to question the electoral environment, Acting Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari has asserted that the February 21 vote will take place as scheduled, dismissing concerns about possible disruption.
Speaking at a program organized by Gorkhapatra Corporation on Sunday, Bhandari said the election process remains on track despite what he described as efforts by certain elements to create confusion. He emphasized that polling will begin at 7 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. on the designated date.
Bhandari noted that some candidates had contacted him expressing doubts about the election timeline. He advised them not to be misled by unverified claims and to continue their campaign activities without hesitation. According to him, elections remain the only constitutional pathway forward, and no alternative has been presented that could replace the process.
He warned that individuals seeking to advance particular agendas may attempt to spread unnecessary rumors, but stated that the public would not endorse such tactics. The government, he added, would prohibit any move aimed at destabilizing the electoral environment, while the Election Commission is closely monitoring developments.
Bhandari also clarified that the Commission continues to provide feedback to the government to address weaknesses in the electoral climate. Political parties and candidates, he said, are actively engaged in campaigning and have not indicated any viable alternative to elections.
Referring to media practices, he urged outlets to refrain from conducting opinion polls during the election period, stating that repeated requests to halt such activities had not been fully observed. He cautioned that actions violating the code of conduct could invite necessary legal measures.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, the Commission maintains that adherence to the code of conduct and restraint from rumor-driven narratives will be critical to ensuring a credible vote.