Chennai, March 16 (NationPress) Prof K.M. Kader Mohideen, the national President of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), has called upon the election officials in Tamil Nadu to guarantee that cash transported by members of the Muslim community for charitable purposes during Ramzan is not confiscated amid the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct for the Assembly elections.

In a letter directed to Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik, Prof Mohideen expressed that while the IUML is fully supportive of the Election Commission’s initiative to facilitate fair and transparent elections, it is crucial to consider the religious practices observed during the sacred month of Ramzan.

Recently, the Election Commission announced the schedule for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, which activated the Model Code of Conduct across the state. To enforce compliance, flying squads and surveillance teams have been conducting inspections of vehicles at various checkpoints. Officials have been directed to take action against anyone carrying more than Rs 50,000 in cash without appropriate documentation to prevent the misuse of money to sway voters.

However, Prof. Mohideen noted that these checks have also created challenges for ordinary citizens, including small business owners and members of the community.

Reports indicate that cash designated for legitimate purposes has occasionally been seized during routine inspections, leading to unease among the populace. He emphasized that this issue carries particular weight this year since the election period aligns with the holy month of Ramzan, during which Muslims traditionally engage in charitable acts.

Among the religious duties during Ramadan is the distribution of zakat and fitra, forms of almsgiving aimed at aiding the less fortunate.

“Numerous individuals in the Muslim community distribute zakat and fitra, particularly during the final five days of Ramadan,” Prof. Mohideen stated in his correspondence, highlighting that these charitable donations are often given directly to individuals and families in need.

Consequently, citizens may carry cash amounts that exceed the limits set during election oversight.

In light of this, the IUML leader requested the Chief Electoral Officer to provide clear guidance to flying squad officials and enforcement teams to ensure that cash intended for zakat and fitra is not unjustly confiscated during vehicle inspections.

Prof. Mohideen conveyed this request on behalf of the Muslim community, expressing hope that the election authorities would approach this matter with empathy while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. He also extended his best wishes for the smooth and peaceful execution of the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.