EC Seizures Exceed Rs 1,000 Crore in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Assembly Elections
In a significant crackdown on electoral malpractices, the Election Commission of India has reported seizures surpassing Rs 1,000 crore in cash, liquor, and drugs during the ongoing 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. This massive haul underscores the EC's intensified efforts to ensure free and fair polls in these key states.
Deployment of Flying Squad Teams
To enforce strict compliance with the Model Code of Conduct, the EC deployed a total of 5,011 Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) across the two states. Specifically, 2,728 FSTs were stationed in West Bengal and 2,283 FSTs in Tamil Nadu. These teams have been actively monitoring and intercepting illegal activities, contributing to the record-breaking seizures.
Breakdown of Seizures
The seizures, which include substantial amounts of cash, liquor, and narcotics, highlight the challenges of money power and substance abuse in Indian elections. The EC's proactive measures aim to curb such influences and maintain the integrity of the democratic process.
- Cash Seizures: Large sums of unaccounted money have been confiscated, intended for voter inducement.
- Liquor Seizures: Significant quantities of alcohol have been intercepted to prevent distribution for electoral gains.
- Drug Seizures: Narcotics have been seized as part of efforts to combat substance-based voter manipulation.
Impact on Election Conduct
This unprecedented seizure figure reflects the EC's commitment to transparency and accountability in the electoral process. By deploying thousands of FSTs, the commission has demonstrated its resolve to tackle corruption and ensure that elections are conducted in a fair manner, free from undue influence.
The 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are being closely watched, with these seizures serving as a testament to the EC's vigilance. As polling continues, further actions are expected to reinforce electoral norms and uphold democratic values.
