ECI Seizes ₹23.28 Crore in Cash and Goods in Tamil Nadu Ahead of Assembly Elections

Synopsis

In a swift operation, the Election Commission of India has confiscated unaccounted cash and goods worth ₹23.28 crore in Tamil Nadu. This crackdown reflects the ECI's commitment to ensuring integrity in the upcoming Assembly elections amid stringent monitoring efforts.

Key Takeaways

ECI seized ₹23.28 crore in cash and goods in Tamil Nadu.

Monitoring is active in all 234 Assembly constituencies.

Maximum candidate spending limit is ₹40 lakh per constituency.

1.68 lakh illegal posters have been removed so far.

61 FIRs filed in relation to election violations.

Chennai, March 18 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has executed a significant operation, seizing unaccounted cash and goods valued at ₹23.28 crore across Tamil Nadu in just two days, as rigorous surveillance measures are implemented in anticipation of the Assembly elections.

Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik stated that stringent monitoring is active in all 234 Assembly constituencies to prevent breaches of the Model Code of Conduct.

This substantial haul underscores the Commission's decisive action against illegal inducements aimed at swaying voters.

To enforce strict compliance, the ECI has deployed nine flying squads alongside nine static surveillance teams in every constituency.

A total of 2,160 flying squads and an equivalent number of field surveillance teams have been organized statewide, creating a robust monitoring framework.

Moreover, 25 inter-departmental units consisting of officials from the Income Tax Department, Enforcement Directorate, Customs, and various other agencies are actively engaged in inspections and raids.

These coordinated initiatives are designed to uncover unaccounted cash movements, unlawful distribution of goods, and other election-related infractions.

The Chief Electoral Officer reiterated that candidates are permitted to spend a maximum of ₹40 lakh per constituency. The Commission is diligently tracking and recording all election-related expenditures to ensure adherence to the established limits.

In terms of enforcement actions taken thus far, Patnaik reported that 1.68 lakh illegal posters and advertisements have been removed across Tamil Nadu for violating the Model Code of Conduct.

Additionally, authorities have filed 61 First Information Reports (FIRs) regarding various infractions, and criminal proceedings have been initiated in several cases.

The heightened vigilance by the ECI arises from concerns regarding the influence of monetary power and inducements during elections, particularly in a politically sensitive region like Tamil Nadu.

Officials emphasized that strict measures will persist against any individuals or groups attempting to manipulate voters through illegal means.

With the election date announced and political campaigns gaining traction, the Commission has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections through continuous monitoring and prompt enforcement actions.

Point of View

The Election Commission's proactive measures in Tamil Nadu reflect a commitment to uphold the democratic process. The significant seizures of unaccounted cash and goods highlight the ongoing battle against electoral malpractices, ensuring that the elections remain fair and transparent.

NationPress

6 Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total amount seized by the ECI?

The Election Commission of India has seized unaccounted cash and goods valued at ₹23.28 crore.

How many constituencies are being monitored?

The ECI is monitoring all 234 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu.

What is the maximum spending limit for candidates?

Candidates are allowed to spend a maximum of ₹40 lakh per constituency.

How many illegal posters have been removed?

A total of 1.68 lakh illegal posters and advertisements have been removed.

What actions are being taken against violators?