Patna, Sep 28 (IANS): Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Nasim Zaidi on Monday directed officials to conduct the Bihar assembly polls in a free, fair, peaceful and participatory manner.

Zaidi also directed the officers to be neutral and impartial to ensure a credible election.

"The commission reviewed the law and order situation and security plan and directed to ensure social and religious harmony and peaceful law and order in the light of different festivals such as Dussehra and Muharram," Zaidi told media persons here.

Zaidi, along with two election commissioners, held a meeting here with the officials of 22 districts which will go to the polls in the first, second and third phases.

"I have directed the officers to conduct election with utmost neutrality. I also asked the officials to ensure confidence building exercise and area domination by the central para-military forces, especially in all vulnerable locations," he added.