The Election Commission has stated that seizures related to cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements have exceeded 650 crore rupees in the lead-up to the upcoming state assembly elections and by-elections across multiple states. These seizures include cash, liquor, narcotics, precious metals, and other incentives aimed at influencing voters.
In a statement, the election panel said that 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 quick response teams have been deployed to promptly address complaints, with a mandate to take action within 100 minutes. Additionally, more than 5,200 static surveillance teams have been established to conduct surprise inspections at key locations.
At the same time, the Commission has emphasized that enforcement authorities should not inconvenience or harass ordinary citizens during the checks and inspections.