The Election Commission Wednesday urged people to "exercise their right to vote" in the coming Lok Sabha election "in an informed and ethical manner".
Chief Election Commissioner V.S. Sampath also appealed to political parties and candidates "to uphold the democratic traditions of the nation by maintaining high standards of political discourse and fair play".
"The Election Commission," he added, "reassures the nation of its solemn resolve and deep commitment to fulfil its constitutional mandate to conduct free, fair and credible elections."
The Lok Sabha election is to be held over nine days, from April 7 to May 12. The vote count will take place nationally May 16.