In a massive pre-election offensive, the Election Commission of India has made history in Bihar by seizing contraband worth more than ₹100 crore since the election schedule was announced. This staggering figure represents the most significant haul recorded in the state's electoral history.
Breaking Down the Massive Seizures
The election monitoring machinery has been working round-the-clock, resulting in unprecedented confiscations across the state. The breakdown reveals:
- Liquor: Valued at approximately ₹28.60 crore
- Cash: Totalling around ₹21.55 crore
- Drugs and narcotics: Worth nearly ₹26.60 crore
- Precious metals and freebies: Valued at about ₹26.31 crore
Surveillance Network Proves Effective
The Election Commission has deployed an extensive monitoring system comprising 265 flying squads, 265 static surveillance teams, and 219 video surveillance teams. This robust network has been instrumental in tracking and intercepting illegal movement of goods and cash intended to influence voters.
"The sheer scale of these seizures indicates both the determination of the Election Commission to ensure free and fair polls and the extent to which parties were prepared to go to influence the electoral process," noted a senior election official.
Historical Context and Significance
This ₹100 crore milestone represents a significant increase compared to previous election cycles in Bihar. The enhanced surveillance technology, increased manpower, and stricter enforcement protocols have collectively contributed to this record-breaking performance in election expenditure monitoring.
The Election Commission's intensified vigil comes amid concerns about the use of money and liquor to sway voters in the politically crucial state, where assembly elections are conducted in three phases.
