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₹23 Crore Seized in 2 Days as Election Commission Cracks Down in Tamil Nadu

The Election Commission of India has seized unaccounted cash and goods worth ₹23.28 crore in Tamil Nadu within just two days as part of its pre-poll crackdown. A massive surveillance network of 2,160 flying squads and static teams has been mobilized across all 234 constituencies. Authorities have removed 1.68 lakh illegal posters and registered 61 FIRs for various violations of the Model Code of Conduct. The ECI is closely tracking all election expenditures against the ₹40 lakh per constituency limit to ensure free and fair polls.

Key Points: ECI Seizes ₹23 Cr in Tamil Nadu, Tightens Poll Surveillance

  • ₹23.28 crore seized in 2 days
  • 2160 flying squads deployed statewide
  • 61 FIRs registered for violations
  • Expenditure limit ₹40 lakh per constituency
2 min read

₹23.28 cr in cash, goods seized in two days as ECI tightens surveillance in poll-bound TN

Election Commission seizes cash & goods worth ₹23.28 crore in Tamil Nadu in two days. 2160 squads deployed to enforce Model Code of Conduct.

"strict action will continue against any individual or group found attempting to influence voters through unlawful means - ECI Officials"

Chennai, March 18

The Election Commission of India has seized unaccounted cash and goods worth ₹23.28 crore across Tamil Nadu within just two days, as intensified surveillance measures come into force ahead of the Assembly elections.

According to a statement issued by Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik, strict monitoring is underway in all 234 Assembly constituencies to curb violations of the Model Code of Conduct.

The large-scale seizures highlight the Commission's aggressive crackdown on illegal inducements aimed at influencing voters.

To ensure stringent enforcement, the ECI has deployed nine flying squads and nine static surveillance teams in each constituency.

In total, 2,160 flying squads and an equal number of field surveillance teams have been mobilised across the State, forming a comprehensive monitoring network.

In addition to these teams, 25 inter-departmental units comprising officials from the Income Tax Department, Enforcement Directorate, Customs, and other agencies are actively participating in inspections and raids.

These coordinated efforts are aimed at detecting unaccounted cash flows, illegal distribution of goods, and other election-related malpractices.

The Chief Electoral Officer reiterated that candidates are permitted to spend a maximum of ₹40 lakh per constituency. All election-related expenditures are being closely tracked and meticulously recorded by the Commission to ensure compliance with prescribed limits.

Highlighting enforcement action taken so far, Patnaik said that 1.68 lakh illegal posters and advertisements have been removed across Tamil Nadu for violating the Model Code of Conduct.

Authorities have also registered 61 First Information Reports (FIRs) in connection with various violations, and criminal proceedings have been initiated in multiple cases.

The ECI's heightened vigilance comes amid concerns over the use of money power and inducements during elections, particularly in a politically sensitive state like Tamil Nadu.

Officials emphasised that strict action will continue against any individual or group found attempting to influence voters through unlawful means.

With the election date announced and political campaigns gaining momentum, the Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent polls through sustained monitoring and swift enforcement measures.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the crackdown is good, I wonder if this is just the tip of the iceberg. 23 crores seized, but how much more is flowing under the radar? The coordination between IT, ED, and Customs is crucial.
V
Vikram M
Good job ECI! But this is an endless cat and mouse game. Parties find new ways every election. The real test is conviction and lasting action, not just seizures. Will the FIRs lead to actual punishments?
P
Priya S
As a voter from Chennai, I appreciate the effort. But we also need voter awareness. People should refuse such inducements. Our vote is our power, not for sale for a few thousand rupees or a saree.
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, I have to point out that such heavy surveillance can also be used to harass ordinary citizens and opposition workers. Hope the ECI ensures these squads act impartially and not just target specific parties.
K
Kavya N
2160 flying squads! That's massive deployment. The scale of operation is impressive. Hope this sets a precedent for all state elections. Democracy needs this level of vigilance to stay healthy.

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