Election Cash Seized in Bengal: Rs 2.75 Lakh Confiscated from Assam Couple
Within 48 hours of the Election Commission declaring the Bengal polls, Alipurduar police made a significant seizure on Wednesday afternoon, confiscating Rs 2.75 lakh in cash from a couple traveling in an Assam-registered car. This action underscores the strict enforcement of election norms, which prohibit individuals from carrying cash exceeding Rs 50,000 once elections are announced.
Details of the Seizure and Investigation
Biken Ishwarari and his wife had arrived in Alipurduar on Tuesday from Rumi Khata in Assam's Chirang district, using an SUV for their journey. They checked into a hotel located on Buxa Feeder Road in the town. On Wednesday afternoon, as they prepared to depart, a team of administrative officials and police from Alipurduar Police Station, acting on a tip-off, intercepted their vehicle.
The authorities discovered Rs 2.75 lakh hidden throughout the car, with the cash in denominations of Rs 500 and Rs 100 notes. The couple was immediately detained for further investigation to ascertain the source and purpose of the funds.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Preliminary police inquiries revealed that Ishwarari is a ration dealer and also owns a betelnut plantation. During interrogation, he claimed that he had come to Alipurduar for a short tour and intended to use the money for shopping purposes. However, officials raised doubts about this explanation, noting that Assam is also heading to polls on April 9, and under the model code of conduct, Ishwarari should not have left Assam with such a large amount of cash.
An official commented, "For shopping, he could have used cards or UPI, which would have been more convenient and compliant with election regulations." This highlights the scrutiny applied to cash movements during election periods to prevent potential misuse.
Alipurduar police are currently finalizing the necessary paperwork related to the seizure. The couple was released in accordance with the law but served a legal notice requiring them to disclose the source of the funds and their purpose in carrying it to Bengal. This step is part of standard procedures to ensure transparency and adherence to electoral guidelines.
Broader Context and Implications
This incident occurs against the backdrop of heightened vigilance during election seasons, where authorities are on high alert to curb illegal activities such as cash trafficking that could influence voting outcomes. The seizure in Alipurduar serves as a reminder of the Election Commission's efforts to maintain a level playing field and uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
As the Bengal polls progress, similar actions may be expected across the state to enforce compliance with election laws. The case also draws attention to the interconnected nature of election monitoring, with officials keeping a close watch on cross-border movements, especially from neighboring states like Assam that are also in the midst of their own electoral cycles.
