According to sources, by the end of May 30th, the Income Tax Department had seized approximately Rs 1100 crore in cash and jewellery, compared to the Rs 390 crore seized during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
This marks a 182 percent increase from the Rs 390 crore seized in the 2019 elections.
Since then, the Income Tax Department has been vigilant in monitoring and seizing unaccounted cash and valuables that could potentially influence voters. According to sources, Delhi and Karnataka led the seizures, each state accounting for more than Rs 200 crore in cash and jewellery.
Tamil Nadu followed with the second-highest seizure of Rs 150 crore. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha collectively accounted for more than Rs 100 crore in cash and jewellery.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) declared the commencement of polls for the 2024 Lok Sabha Election, and the Moral Code of Conduct (MCC) has been enforced nationwide since March 16. Central agencies have been on high alert to ensure compliance with guidelines, focusing on monitoring the movement of cash, liquor, freebies, drugs, jewellery, and other items that could influence voters. Each state has established 24/7 control rooms to check the illegal movement of cash that could be used in elections by politicians.
The MCC applies to all political parties and candidates, aiming to prevent unethical practices and promote ethical conduct. Individuals found carrying cash over Rs 50,000 or new items worth over Rs 10,000 without supporting documents will have these items seized.
If the individual provides valid documents proving the items are unrelated to the elections, they will be returned. However, if the seized cash exceeds Rs 10 lakh, it will be forwarded to the Income Tax Department for further scrutiny.
