The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday said poll-related seizures in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have crossed the Rs 1,000 crore mark, underscoring intensified enforcement efforts to curb voter inducement ahead of key elections.
According to the poll body, enforcement agencies have seized cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies collectively valued at Rs 1,072.13 crore since the activation of the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS) on February 26. The large-scale crackdown comes as Tamil Nadu prepares for single-phase polling on Thursday, while West Bengal continues its multi-phase election, with the second phase scheduled for April 29.
Massive Crackdown on Illicit Inducements
The ECI said the seizures are part of a coordinated effort to ensure free and fair elections by preventing the distribution of illegal inducements to voters. The recovered items include Rs 127.67 crore in cash, nearly 41,000 litres of liquor valued at Rs 106.3 crore, and drugs worth approximately Rs 184 crore.
In addition, authorities confiscated precious metals, including gold and silver, estimated at Rs 215 crore. Freebies – often used to influence voters – accounted for the largest share, with seizures worth Rs 418 crore, reflecting a growing trend of non-cash inducements in elections.
Officials indicated that Tamil Nadu recorded a higher proportion of cash and precious metal seizures, while West Bengal saw significant recoveries of liquor and narcotics.
Deployment of Surveillance Machinery
To strengthen monitoring, the Commission has deployed an extensive network of surveillance teams across both states. Over 5,000 Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) have been mobilised to respond swiftly to complaints, alongside more than 5,300 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) stationed at key checkpoints.
These teams are conducting round-the-clock inspections, setting up nakas, and intercepting suspicious movement of goods. The ECI has instructed enforcement personnel to act promptly while ensuring minimal disruption to the public.
Balancing Enforcement and Public Convenience
The Commission has emphasised that enforcement should remain citizen-friendly. Authorities have been directed to avoid unnecessary harassment and ensure that routine movement of people is not adversely affected during checks.
To address grievances, District Grievance Committees have been set up, allowing citizens and political stakeholders to raise concerns related to enforcement actions.
Public Participation and Reporting Mechanisms
The ECI has urged voters and political parties to actively report violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Complaints can be filed through the C-Vigil feature on the ECINET platform, enabling real-time monitoring and quick response.
Ensuring Clean and Fair Elections
The surge in seizures highlights the Commission’s proactive approach in maintaining electoral integrity. With crucial elections underway, the ECI reiterated its commitment to ensuring a process that is free from inducement, intimidation, and malpractice.
The unprecedented scale of enforcement reflects both the challenges and the heightened vigilance surrounding India’s electoral landscape, as authorities work to safeguard democratic processes in the run-up to polling.