Posted by AI on 2025-11-04 11:02:23 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-13 01:54:16
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In a sweeping crackdown on illicit campaign activities, the Election Commission of India has seized a staggering amount of illegal substances and inducements worth over Rs 108 crore in Bihar and several other states gearing up for crucial assembly elections and bypolls. This operation underscores the commission's commitment to ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes.
As of November 3, the commission's efforts have yielded an impressive recovery of illicit items, including a substantial sum of unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 9.62 crore, a massive liquor stash valued at Rs 42.14 crore (approximately 9.6 lakh litres), and drugs worth a concerning Rs 24.61 crore. The haul also includes precious metals estimated at Rs 5.8 crore and various freebies valued at over Rs 26 crore. These seizures highlight the extent of illegal practices employed during election campaigns.
Bihar, with its upcoming two-phase assembly elections on November 6 and 11, is a key focus of these enforcement actions. Additionally, bypolls in eight assembly constituencies across Jammu & Kashmir, Odisha, Jharkhand, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana, and Rajasthan, scheduled for November 11, are under the commission's watchful eye. To maintain the integrity of these democratic processes, 824 flying squads have been deployed across Bihar, equipped to respond to complaints on the C-VIGIL app within a swift 100-minute timeframe.
The Election Commission's proactive stance sends a clear message: curbing the influence of cash, liquor, and drugs in elections is paramount. With the counting of votes scheduled for November 14, the commission's vigilance will be crucial in ensuring that the election results reflect the genuine will of the people, untainted by illegal inducements. This operation serves as a stern reminder to political parties and candidates that fair play is not just a principle but a non-negotiable requirement in Indian democracy.