ECI seizures in West Bengal cross Rs 510 crore ahead of Phase 2 of Assembly Elections
New Delhi, April 27
The Election Commission of India on Monday announced that seizures of illicit inducements in West Bengal have surpassed Rs 510 crore ahead of the second phase of the Assembly elections. This figure has already exceeded the Rs 339 crore recorded during the 2021 General Election to the Legislative Assembly in the state.
According to the ECI, the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS) recorded significant recoveries between February 26 and April 27. The seized items include cash worth Rs 30 crore and 48,46,183 litres of liquor valued at Rs 126.85 crore. Enforcement agencies also recovered drugs worth Rs 110.12 crore, precious metals valued at Rs 58.28 crore, and other freebies worth Rs 184.85 crore.
The ECI further noted that it has held multiple review meetings with Chief Secretaries, Directors General of Police (DGPs), and senior officers from poll-bound states. These meetings, which also included heads of enforcement agencies, focused on ensuring violence-free and inducement-free elections.
To bolster enforcement, the Commission has deployed over 2,728 Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) across the region to ensure that complaints are addressed within 100 minutes.
Additionally, 3,142 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) are conducting surprise checks at various locations. Special drives are also underway to target the manufacture, storage, and distribution of illicit liquor.
Earlier, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday directed the West Bengal Police to undertake a special drive to arrest individuals involved in bomb-making activities across the state, with instructions to seize all such threatening materials within 24 hours, ECI officials said.
Official's said that a stern message has been conveyed to the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, all Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), and officers up to the rank of Officer-in-Charge (OC) and Inspector-in-Charge (IC), warning that any recovery of explosives or incidents involving intimidation tactics in their jurisdiction would invite unprecedented consequences.
The Commission has made it clear that concerned officers will be held directly accountable if such materials are found or threats are reported in their areas, and they "shall not be spared," sources added.
The ECI has also directed that all such cases, including those related to bomb-making, be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to ensure strict action and maintain a peaceful electoral environment in the state.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Rs 126 crore worth of liquor seized is shocking. How many people are being tempted with alcohol right before voting? And the drugs worth Rs 110 crore show a new low. Elections should be about development and policies, not about distributing illegal stuff. I hope the NIA probe into bomb-making sends a strong message to those trying to disrupt peace. Stay strong, West Bengal! 🙏
While I appreciate the ECI's efforts, I'm skeptical about the numbers. Seizures are impressive, but are they really stopping the flow? The fact that we've already crossed the 2021 figure shows that the problem is worsening. More Flying Squad Teams and Static Surveillance Teams are good, but we need systemic reform. Also, why is the onus only on police? Political parties should also be held accountable. Just my two paise. 🤔
This is a good step, but why is NIA being brought in just now? Bomb-making materials and intimidation tactics have been a known issue in West Bengal for years. Better late than never, I suppose. I just hope the officers who are threatened or bribed don't get let off the hook. Accountability must start from the top. Also, kudos to the people who refuse to be bribed—that's real democracy! ⚡
I live in Bengal and I can tell you, the situation is tense. Seeing such huge seizures is both reassuring and terrifying. Reassuring because the ECI is working hard, terrifying because it means so much money is being spent to influence voters. The common person just wants a safe environment to cast their vote. I hope the special drives against illegal liquor and bombs make a real difference. Chalo, let's vote with our conscience! ✌️
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