Before the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission seized a record ₹4,650 crore, surpassing 2019 figures. Rajasthan led with approximately ₹778 crore seized, followed by Gujarat with ₹605 crore, and Maharashtra with about ₹431 crore.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) aims for the highest-ever seizures of inducements in Lok Sabha election history, crucial for ensuring a fair electoral process free from inducements and malpractices.
Even before polling began, enforcement agencies seized ₹4,650 crore, a significant increase from the ₹3,475 crore seized during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, as per the poll body.
The Commission emphasized its commitment to monitoring inducements and preventing electoral malpractices, particularly benefiting smaller and less resourceful parties. Notably, 45% of the seizures comprised drugs and narcotics, a focus area for the Commission. Success is attributed to comprehensive planning, enhanced collaboration among agencies, proactive citizen involvement, and effective technology use.
State-wise data on seized inducements showed Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra leading.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar highlighted “Money Power” as a significant challenge, along with “money, muscle, misinformation, and Model Code of Conduct violations.” The Commission stressed curbing black money to maintain a level playing field.
The Commission’s statement underscores its determination to conduct fair elections by preventing inducements and malpractices.
In a recent meeting, led by CEC Rajiv Kumar, the Commission assessed Central Observers for the first phase of elections, focusing on tightening monitoring to ensure an inducement-free process.
Increased seizures reflect the Election Commission’s unwavering commitment to monitor inducements and prevent malpractices, ensuring fairness, especially for smaller political entities.
