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The Income Tax Department has achieved a record seizure of Rs 1100 crore in cash and jewellery during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, reflecting a remarkable 182 percent increase compared to the Rs 390 crore seized during the 2019 elections. By May 30, 2024, the department had confiscated approximately Rs 1100 crore worth of cash and jewellery. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was enforced on March 16, the day the Election Commission of India announced the election dates. Since then, the Income Tax Department has diligently monitored and seized unaccounted cash and valuables that could potentially influence voters.
According to sources, Delhi and Karnataka recorded the highest seizures with each state accounting for over Rs 200 crore in cash and jewellery. Tamil Nadu followed with the second-highest seizure amounting to Rs 150 crore. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha collectively accounted for over Rs 100 crore in cash and jewellery.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the commencement of the 2024 Lok Sabha Election, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) being enforced nationwide since March 16. Central agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure strict adherence to 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 detect and prevent the illegal movement of cash and valuables intended for use in elections by politicians.
The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) applies to all political parties and candidates to stop unethical practices and promote good behavior. Increased vigilance and strong measures have resulted in much more unaccounted cash and valuables being seized than in previous elections, showing the authorities’ commitment to a fair and transparent voting process.
The record seizure highlights the hard work of the Income Tax Department and other central agencies to keep the elections fair. The seizures conducted by the Income Tax Department during elections serve as a critical mechanism for upholding the integrity of the democratic process. By intercepting unaccounted cash and valuables, authorities effectively thwart attempts to manipulate election outcomes through unfair means such as bribery or vote-buying. This action not only promotes fairness but also instills confidence among voters that their choices are not unduly influenced by monetary incentives.
Additionally, when authorities take away hidden money during elections, it helps make the way campaigns are funded clearer. By getting rid of sneaky money, it is harder for candidates to secretly pay for their campaigns without telling anyone. This honesty is really important because it keeps people trusting the election system and makes sure that elected leaders answer to the voters, not to secret backers.
Furthermore, the seizures play a crucial role in combating corruption within the political sphere. By cracking down on the illegal use of cash and valuables, authorities send a clear message that corrupt practices will not be tolerated. This protects democracy and encourages a fair system where people’s choices matter more than money.
In simple twords, the seizures done by Income Tax Department during elections help stop cheating and uphold democracy’s basic rules. By stopping bad activities and making sure things are fair and clear, these actions make India’s democratic system stronger and more lively.
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