Focus on Movement of Men, Material and Money
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi reviewed arrangements to monitor the movement of people, materials and money across State borders and the international boundary with Nepal. The Commission specifically sought steps to curb trafficking of arms, liquor, narcotics and the flow of freebies and unaccounted cash that could influence voters.
Border Sealing and Enhanced Checks
Officials were instructed to tighten checks at inter-State posts and in border districts adjoining Bihar. The ECI ordered the Chief Secretaries and DGPs of neighbouring States, and the DG of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), to ensure sealing and intensified monitoring of key crossing points, transport hubs and known smuggling routes. The Commission emphasised a zero-tolerance approach to any attempt aimed at subverting the electoral process.
Central Agencies Asked to Ramp Up Enforcement
Central agencies including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Income Tax Department, Central GST, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) were directed to step up intelligence-led operations and maximise seizures ahead of polling. The ECI underscored the need for rapid action on actionable intelligence to prevent inducement through cash, liquor or narcotics.
Voter Facilitation and Smooth Polling
Alongside enforcement directives, the Commission reviewed compliance with voter facilitation measures to ensure a smooth polling experience. The meeting called for seamless logistical arrangements, clear communication to voters and enhanced security at polling stations so electors can cast their votes without fear or inconvenience.
Seamless Coordination Across Agencies
The ECI stressed that free and fair elections require close coordination between state administrations, police and central enforcement bodies. Officials were urged to maintain continuous information sharing, map constituencies vulnerable to illicit flows, and proactively use intelligence to neutralise threats to electoral integrity.
Why This Matters
Bihar, with porous stretches along the international boundary with Nepal and busy inter-State corridors, often poses unique enforcement challenges during elections. The ECI’s directives aim to preempt the misuse of cash, liquor and narcotics as inducements, and to block the movement of anti-social elements and illegal materials that could disrupt peaceful polling. Experts say such advance coordination can significantly reduce malpractice risks.
Next Steps
The Commission has asked for regular situation reports from the States and central agencies, and signalled that it will not hesitate to deploy additional resources where required. A formal press conference to update media and stakeholders on enforcement steps is expected as the polls draw nearer.
