Election Commission of India (ECI) reports massive seizures worth Rs 327.44 crore in West Bengal ahead of Assembly polls, including cash, liquor, drugs, arms, and explosives, highlighting strict enforcement of Model Code of Conduct and intensified election security measures.
In a major crackdown ahead of the crucial Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has reported seizures of illegal and unauthorised items worth a staggering Rs 327.44 crore across West Bengal between February 26 and April 6.
The enforcement drive comes as the state prepares for a high-stakes two-phase election scheduled later this month. According to an official statement released by the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer’s (CEO) office, the seizures reflect intensified efforts to ensure free, fair, and transparent polling.
Breakdown of Seized Materials
The data released by the CEO’s office reveals a wide range of confiscated items, pointing to attempts at influencing voters and disrupting the electoral process.
Cash seizures alone amounted to Rs 11.01 crore, indicating possible use of money power in the elections. Authorities also confiscated illegal liquor worth Rs 57.71 crore, often linked to voter inducement practices.
In a significant development, drugs and narcotics valued at Rs 67.35 crore were seized, highlighting concerns over the use of illicit substances during election periods. Additionally, precious metals worth Rs 38.55 crore were recovered during various operations.
The largest share of the seizures falls under freebies and other items, collectively valued at Rs 162.80 crore. These items are commonly distributed to influence voters and violate the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
Arms and Explosives Raise Security Concerns
Beyond monetary and inducement-related seizures, law enforcement agencies have also recovered a concerning number of weapons and explosives.
As per the report, 251 unlicensed arms and 401 cartridges were seized across the state till early April. Furthermore, authorities confiscated approximately 127.7 kilograms of explosives and 887 bombs, underscoring potential threats to election security.
These figures have prompted heightened vigilance, especially in sensitive and politically volatile districts.
Crackdown on Political Defacement
The CEO’s office also confirmed that extensive drives are underway to remove unauthorised political advertisements and public property defacement.
Officials stated that all districts have reported substantial progress, with District Election Officers certifying the removal of defacement from public properties under their jurisdiction. This initiative aims to maintain electoral decorum and ensure compliance with MCC guidelines.
ECI’s Commitment to Free and Fair Elections
The Election Commission of India reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, impartiality, and security throughout the electoral process.
Polling in West Bengal will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, covering all 294 Assembly constituencies. The CEO’s office is closely monitoring the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct and overseeing the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to ensure peaceful voting.
Officials emphasized that daily monitoring and enforcement actions will continue until the completion of the electoral process.
Heightened Vigilance Ahead of Polls
The scale of seizures highlights the intensity of election preparedness and the challenges faced by authorities in curbing illegal activities. With increased surveillance and coordinated efforts between central and state agencies, the ECI aims to prevent any malpractice that could undermine the democratic process.
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As West Bengal heads toward polling day, the focus remains firmly on ensuring that voters can exercise their franchise freely, without fear or undue influence.
