Amidst the assembly elections in five states, the Election Commission has intensified efforts to curb illicit practices influencing voters. Substantial inspections have yielded significant seizures, amounting to materials valued at Rs. 1760 crore. This includes cash, liquor, drugs, freebies, and other items confiscated since the announcement of election dates on October 9. Notably, this amount surpasses the 2018 seizures (Rs. 239.15 crore) by sevenfold.
Telangana stands out, having recorded the highest seizures totalling Rs. 659 crores. In detail, Telangana saw Rs. 225.23 crores in cash seizures, along with liquor valued at Rs. 86 crore, drugs worth Rs. 103.74 crore, and precious metals and goods for distribution totaling Rs. 243.47 crore. Interestingly, Mizoram did not report cash seizures but confiscated drugs worth Rs. 29.82 crore.
As Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, and Madhya Pradesh have completed polling, Rajasthan and Telangana are due for elections on the 30th. The Election Commission anticipates further seizures as the elections progress.
