ECI Urges Vigilance Ahead of Upcoming Assembly Elections

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar called for strict action against politically motivated crimes in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. A review meeting with top officials emphasized curbing illegal inducements and ensuring fair elections. Significant seizures highlight the focus on maintaining a level playing field for the forthcoming polls.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, on Tuesday, urged Maharashtra's DGP to impose stringent measures against politically motivated crimes, sources disclosed to ANI. The Election Commission of India conducted a pivotal review meeting with Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and their adjoining border states' officials to evaluate the prevailing law-and-order scenario for the upcoming assembly elections.

In the course of the review, the CEC voiced concerns over politically fueled offenses disrupting electoral fairness. The Commission has mandated intensified efforts to prevent the illicit flow of inducements like cash, liquor, narcotics, precious metals, and other freebies into the election-bound regions.

With seizures amounting to Rs 345 crores since the election announcement, including Rs 114 crores from Jharkhand and Rs 175 crores from Maharashtra, enforcement actions have already outpaced the 2019 seizures of Rs 122.67 crores. CEC Kumar further advised Jharkhand authorities to handle political figures impartially and prevent misuse of power. The Commission emphasized the necessity for heightened vigilance and intelligence to intercept illegal items, urging the establishment of checkpoints for diligent monitoring and interdiction of contraband.