West Bengal Elections: Seizure of Illegal Items Worth Rs 327.44 Crore
Synopsis
As West Bengal gears up for vital Assembly polls, the ECI reports the confiscation of illegal items valued at Rs 327.44 crore, including cash, drugs, and unlicensed firearms. This comprehensive crackdown underscores the commitment to a transparent electoral process.
Key Takeaways
Illegal items worth Rs 327.44 crore seized in West Bengal.
Cash seizures totaled Rs 11.01 crore.
Drugs and narcotics valued at Rs 67.35 crore were confiscated.
251 unlicensed firearms were seized.
The elections are set for April 23 and April 29.
Kolkata, April 7 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Tuesday that between February 26 and April 6, illegal and unauthorized items valued at approximately Rs 327.44 crore have been confiscated in West Bengal, which is preparing for significant two-phase Assembly elections later this month.
The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) Office provided a press release detailing these seizures.
Out of the total amount, cash seizures reached Rs 11.01 crore.
The value of illegal liquor confiscated is Rs 57.71 crore, while drugs and narcotics amounted to Rs 67.35 crore.
Additionally, precious metals valued at Rs 38.55 crore were seized, and the worth of freebies and other items was stated to be Rs 162.80 crore.
According to the press statement, 251 unlicensed firearms and 401 cartridges have been confiscated as of April 4 in the state.
Furthermore, a total of 127.7 kg of explosives and 887 bombs have been seized during the same timeframe.
Simultaneously, the CEO's office mentioned ongoing efforts to eliminate unauthorized political advertisements.
"Current reports show that extensive public and private property defacements have been addressed across all districts, with District Election Officers certifying the removal of such defacements from all public properties under their jurisdiction," stated the CEO's office press release.
"The ECI is dedicated to ensuring a highly transparent, fair, and secure election process across all 294 Assembly Constituencies in West Bengal. As the state approaches the scheduled polling dates of April 23 and April 29, the West Bengal CEO's office is diligently monitoring the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). This daily briefing offers a thorough overview of the latest operational updates," the statement concluded.
Point of View
The focus remains on maintaining transparency and security in the democratic process.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What items were seized in West Bengal?
Illegal items seized include cash, liquor, drugs, unlicensed arms, and explosives, totaling Rs 327.44 crore.
What is the significance of the upcoming Assembly polls?
The Assembly polls are crucial for shaping the political landscape in West Bengal and ensuring a democratic process.
How is the ECI ensuring fair elections?
The ECI is monitoring the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct and deploying Central Armed Police Forces to maintain security.
What measures are being taken against illegal campaigning?
The CEO's office is conducting extensive drives to remove unauthorized political advertisements and defacements.
When are the polling dates for the West Bengal Assembly elections?
The polling dates are scheduled for April 23 and April 29.
