The Election Commission of India reported that from February 26 to April 6, illegal items worth approximately Rs 327.44 crore were seized in West Bengal ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls. The seizures included cash amounting to Rs 11.01 crore, illegal liquor valued at Rs 57.71 crore, drugs and narcotics worth Rs 67.35 crore, precious metals valued at Rs 38.55 crore, and freebies and other items totaling Rs 162.80 crore.
The press statement also revealed that 251 unlicensed arms and weapons, along with 401 cartridges, were seized in the state by April 4. Additionally, 127.7 kg of explosives and 887 bombs were confiscated during the same period. The state CEO’s office highlighted ongoing efforts to remove unauthorized political advertisements and clear public and private property defacements across all districts.
The Election Commission emphasized its commitment to conducting transparent, impartial, and secure polls in all 294 Assembly Constituencies of West Bengal. As the state prepares for the scheduled polling phases on April 23 and April 29, the West Bengal CEO’s office continues to monitor the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct and the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces for ensuring a smooth electoral process.
