Huge Crackdown Ahead Of Polls: Over Rs 1,000 Crore Seized In Tamil Nadu And Bengal

West Bengal: This time during the assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, the level of monitoring and action seems to be stricter than before. Cash and goods worth more than Rs 1,000 crore have been seized so far in the operation being conducted by the Election Commission. This figure shows that this time the administration is fully active in making the elections fair.

How much amount and how many goods have been seized?

According to official figures, more than Rs 1,072 crore has been seized so far in both states together. Tamil Nadu's share in this is around Rs 599 crore, while in West Bengal, seizures of around Rs 472 crore have been recorded. This includes cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals and gifts used to woo voters.

What difference was seen in the pattern of seizures in the two states?

If we compare the two states, the method and focus of seizure appear different. A large quantity of liquor, drugs and goods distributed free of cost has been seized in West Bengal. Whereas in Tamil Nadu, the seizure of liquor was relatively less, the seizure of precious metals like gold and silver and gifts was seen more. This makes it clear that the methods of influencing voters may be different in different states.

What arrangements have been made for monitoring?

The Election Commission has fielded thousands of teams to strengthen the entire campaign. More than 5,000 flying squad teams have been formed, which take immediate action on any complaint. These teams have been instructed to reach the spot within the stipulated time and investigate. Apart from this, more than 5,000 permanent surveillance teams are also deployed, which are checking and blocking in different areas.

Is this time's campaign different from before?

This time the action is considered to be much bigger and stricter than the previous elections. The number of seizures made during the last Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal has already been exceeded this time. It is clear that this time the surveillance has been made more stringent.

What steps have been taken to save the common people from trouble?

The Election Commission has given clear instructions that common citizens should not face unnecessary trouble during the investigation. For this, grievance redressal committees have been formed in every district, where people can register their problems. This is ensuring that along with strictness, transparency and balance is also maintained.

Overall, this time the level of monitoring and enforcement is being seen quite high in the elections of Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The huge seizure and strict action clearly indicate that the administration does not want to leave any stone unturned to make the elections fair and transparent.