Kolkata, 08 April (H.S.): In a major crackdown ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, illegal materials worth ₹3.2744 billion (₹327.44 crore) have been seized between February 26 and April 6 as part of intensified surveillance to ensure free and fair polls, the Election Commission of India said.

According to the poll authority, the seizures include cash, liquor, narcotic substances, precious metals and other items allegedly meant to influence voters. Multiple enforcement agencies have been conducting coordinated drives to prevent the use of money power and inducements during the election process.

Officials said that monitoring has been significantly stepped up across districts since the announcement of the election schedule. Flying squads, static surveillance teams and joint units of the police and election authorities have been carrying out continuous inspection drives.

Authorities associated with the election process said such actions are aimed at curbing the role of illicit money and unlawful influence in the electoral process so that voters can exercise their franchise without fear or inducement.

West Bengal is scheduled to go to the polls later this month, and security arrangements have been further strengthened in view of the high-stakes Assembly elections. The Election Commission has reiterated that strict action will continue against those found violating the Model Code of Conduct.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh