Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | I-T dept seizes Rs 1,100 crore in cash, jewellery during ongoing polls
Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | The Income Tax Department has achieved a record seizure of Rs 1100 crore in cash and jewellery during the ongoing Lok Sabha Elections.
According to sources, by the end of May 30th, the department had confiscated nearly Rs 1100 crore in cash and jewels, an 182% rise from the Rs 390 crore seized during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) went into effect on March 16, the day the Election Commission of India announced the dates for the Lok Sabha elections. Since then, the Income Tax Department has been diligent in tracking down and recovering unaccounted cash and items that could potentially influence voters.
Notably, Delhi and Karnataka topped the list for the highest seizures, with each state comprising more than Rs 200 crore worth of cash and jewellery.
Tamil Nadu followed with the second-highest seizure, amounting to Rs 150 crore. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha collectively comprised more than Rs 100 crore worth of cash and jewellery.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the commencement of polls for the 2024 Lok Sabha Election, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) enforced nationwide since March 16.
Central agencies have been put on high alert to ensure compliance with guidelines, focusing on monitoring the movement of cash, liquor, freebies, drugs, jewelry, and other items that could potentially influence voters.
Each state has established 24/7 control rooms to prevent the illegal movement of cash that politicians might use during elections.
The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats is being held in seven phases starting April 19. The counting of the votes will be held on June 4.
- With inputs from agencies
