The value of cash, valuables, and contraband seized during the current election period in Tamil Nadu has nearly doubled compared to the 2021 Assembly elections, indicating increased enforcement efforts to combat illegal inducements, as per Election Department officials. In the 2021 polls, enforcement agencies confiscated gifts, precious metals, and unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 446.28 crore and Rs 236.70 crore, respectively. Over 50% of the seized items were returned upon submission of valid ownership proof, with gold accounting for Rs 173.19 crore of the total seizures.
In contrast, the ongoing election period has seen seizures totaling around Rs 800 crore so far, encompassing cash, jewelry, narcotics, and liquor. This surge highlights enhanced surveillance and stricter monitoring mechanisms implemented statewide. Of the total seizures, Rs 126.64 crore in unaccounted cash was seized due to lack of proper documentation. Authorities emphasize that individuals can reclaim their seized valuables by providing necessary documents to verify ownership.
Officials reported that approximately Rs 400 crore worth of seized materials, including cash and precious metals, have already been released following verification. This underscores the extensive enforcement actions taken and the safeguards in place to protect legitimate owners from undue inconvenience. The seizures were conducted by flying squads, static surveillance teams, and Income Tax officials stationed across all 234 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, ensuring continuous checks on vehicles and monitoring of suspicious movements of goods and money.
The intensified crackdown aims to prevent the distribution of cash and other inducements to voters, a significant concern during elections. Authorities maintain strict vigilance to ensure a fair electoral process and uphold its integrity. As the polling day nears, authorities are expected to further enhance surveillance measures to guarantee a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
