Election Commission of India Seizes Over ₹651 Crore in Cash and Liquor Ahead of 2026 Elections
ECI seizes over Rs 651 cr in cash, liquor ahead of elections; here’s which state tops the list
Mathrubhumi English
Image: Mathrubhumi English
Ahead of the 2026 elections, the Election Commission of India has seized over ₹651.5 crore (approximately $78 million USD) in cash, liquor, and drugs across five states and Union Territories. West Bengal leads with ₹319 crore in recoveries, raising concerns about electoral inducements.
- 01The total value of seizures across five poll-bound states exceeds ₹651.5 crore.
- 02West Bengal reported the highest seizures at ₹319 crore, including significant amounts of liquor and drugs.
- 03Assam's total seizures reached ₹97 crore, with notable liquor and drug confiscations.
- 04Tamil Nadu's seizures amounted to ₹170 crore, while Kerala reported ₹58 crore in inducements.
- 05The Election Commission has deployed over 5,173 flying squads to ensure free and fair elections.
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The Election Commission of India has reported a staggering ₹651.5 crore (approximately $78 million USD) in seizures of cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements across five states and Union Territories in preparation for the upcoming elections in April 2026. West Bengal leads with ₹319 crore in confiscated items, which includes ₹150 crore in freebies, ₹55 crore in liquor, and ₹65 crore in drugs. Assam follows with total seizures valued at ₹97 crore, while Tamil Nadu's total stands at ₹170 crore and Kerala at ₹58 crore. Puducherry reported the lowest at ₹7 crore. To ensure free and fair elections, the Election Commission has deployed 5,173 flying squads and 5,200 Static Surveillance Teams to monitor activities and respond promptly to complaints.
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The significant seizures indicate a crackdown on electoral malpractices, aiming to ensure a fair voting process in the upcoming elections.
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