The Election Commission has said that the seizures related to cash, liquor, drugs and other inducements have crossed 650 crore rupees ahead of the upcoming assembly elections and bypolls across multiple states. The seizures include cash, liquor, narcotics, precious metals and other freebies aimed at influencing voters.
In a statement, the poll panel said state-wise data shows that West Bengal recorded the highest total seizures at 319 crore rupees, followed by Tamil Nadu with 170 crore, Assam with 97 crore, Kerala with 58 crore, and Puducherry with 7 crore rupees.
Over 5,100 flying squads have been deployed to respond swiftly to complaints, with a mandate to act within 100 minutes. Additionally, more than 5 thousand 200 Static Surveillance Teams have been set up to conduct surprise checks at key locations.
At the same time, the Commission has emphasised that the enforcement authorities should not inconvenience or harass ordinary citizens during the checking and inspection.
