The Election Commission of India (ECI) has seized illegal items worth over Rs 650 crore this election season, including cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and freebies meant to influence voters.
According to official data, the seizures span multiple states and union territories conducting assembly or bypoll elections. The recovered materials include Rs 300 crore in unaccounted cash, thousands of litres of illicit liquor, narcotics worth significant amounts, and gold and silver valued at over Rs 150 crore. Authorities also confiscated vehicles, household appliances, and other inducements distributed to lure voters.
Senior ECI officials said flying squads, static surveillance teams, and inter-agency coordination with police, income tax, and customs departments have strengthened enforcement under the Model Code of Conduct. “Ensuring inducement-free elections is our top priority,” an ECI spokesperson stated. “We are committed to maintaining the purity of the electoral process by enforcing strict action against attempts to influence voters through money or gifts.”
The Commission urged political parties, candidates, and citizens to report violations through its dedicated apps and helplines. Officials warned that those involved in distributing or accepting inducements will face prosecution under the Representation of the People Act and the Indian Penal Code.
The ECI’s ongoing drive reflects heightened vigilance in poll-bound regions. Similar operations will continue until voting concludes across all phases. The Commission reaffirmed that proactive measures are essential to uphold democratic integrity and prevent undue influence on the electorate.
