Kolkata SST Seizes Rs 53 Lakh Unaccounted Cash in Pre-Election Crackdown
In a significant operation ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, Kolkata's static surveillance team (SST) has confiscated a total of Rs 53 lakh in unaccounted-for cash across three separate incidents in the city. This coordinated effort underscores the Election Commission's stringent measures to curb illicit financial activities during the poll season.
First Seizure: Rs 20 Lakh from Businessman in Central Kolkata
The first case unfolded on Tuesday when the SST, led by Srikanta Mal, ASI of New Market Police Station, intercepted a vehicle in central Kolkata's Chatawala Gali. During a routine check naka, authorities discovered a bag containing Rs 20 lakh in cash. The vehicle's occupant, identified as Basant Kumar Soni (59), a businessman from Lake Town, was promptly detained for questioning.
Adding to the investigative rigor, Income Tax inspector Rajeev Ranjan and his team arrived at the scene to assist with the probe, highlighting the multi-agency collaboration in this election-related enforcement action.
Second Incident: Rs 17 Lakh Seized from Two Individuals
In a parallel operation on Tuesday morning, another SST unit, comprising ASI Pravash Chandra Bodhuk alongside a team from Burtolla Police Station led by SI A K Sarkar and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), stopped a car at a check naka. From this vehicle, authorities seized Rs 17 lakh in unaccounted cash.
The two individuals traveling in the car, Fazlur Rahaman (49) and Vivek Ojha (28), were taken into custody as part of the ongoing crackdown on suspicious financial transactions during the election period.
Third Haul: Rs 16.4 Lakh Confiscated at M G Road-Chitpore Crossing
The third seizure occurred when police detained Dinesh Ghosh (25) from Singur at the M G Road-Chitpore crossing. During this interception, authorities found and confiscated Rs 16.4 lakh in cash, further amplifying the scale of the pre-election vigilance operations.
Election Commission's Vigilance in Focus
These incidents collectively demonstrate the Election Commission's proactive stance in monitoring and seizing unaccounted money to ensure a fair electoral process. The static surveillance teams, working in tandem with local police and other agencies, have been instrumental in these efforts, reflecting a robust mechanism to deter malpractices.
As the assembly elections approach, such crackdowns are expected to intensify, with authorities remaining on high alert to prevent any undue influence through illicit cash flows. The detained individuals are currently under investigation, with further legal actions anticipated based on the findings.
