Chennai, 16 March (H.S.):With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into force ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, election authorities have intensified monitoring across the State to prevent the illegal movement of cash and goods during the poll period.

Addressing reporters at the Secretariat in Chennai on Monday, Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik said more than 4,200 surveillance teams have been deployed statewide. These include 2,106 flying squads and an equal number of static surveillance teams, tasked with keeping watch on suspicious activities related to elections.

Patnaik said enforcement officials have already seized unaccounted cash and goods worth ₹1.26 crore since the MCC came into effect on Sunday evening. She added that authorities are also monitoring digital financial transactions, apart from physical movement of cash, to prevent attempts to influence voters.

To strengthen enforcement, the Election Commission has held coordination meetings with 23 different enforcement agencies, including tax and financial authorities, to ensure strict compliance with election guidelines.

Responding to concerns raised by traders about restrictions on carrying cash during the MCC period, the CEO clarified that there is no fixed limit on the amount of cash individuals can carry, provided they possess valid documents showing the source of the funds. Those carrying large amounts of cash must produce proof of withdrawal or other legitimate documentation if questioned by surveillance teams.

Patnaik also urged voters to verify their names and polling station details well in advance. Booth Level Officers have been instructed to assist voters in checking their details. Individuals wishing to add their names to the electoral rolls can apply until March 26. About 3.14 lakh applications for voter inclusion have been received since the final electoral rolls were published.

The CEO said candidates can file nomination papers from March 30 to April 6 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., except on designated public holidays.

Election authorities will also monitor AI-generated content and misinformation on social media during the campaign period. Nearly three lakh personnel are being trained for election duty, and 50 companies of paramilitary forces have already been deployed in the State to assist with poll security.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman