Crackdown in Karnataka: Election Commission unveils massive seizures worth Rs 357 crore

Amid the Lok Sabha election warfare, the Election Commission has made record seizures. Election Officers, vigilant against malpractices have mounted a formidable crackdown, seizing a staggering sum totaling Rs 357 crore.

The electoral battleground in Karnataka has witnessed an unprecedented surge in scrutiny by officials tasked with combating irregularities. From March 16 to April 15, during the enforcement of the electoral code of conduct, a relentless pursuit of operations unfolded across the state, including its capital Bengaluru.

Also read: Bengaluru: Election Commission, in light of the model code of conduct, will also monitor water tankers

The haul stands as a stark testament to the magnitude of illicit activities permeating the electoral landscape:

Alcohol valued at ₹160.71 crore

Gold amounting to ₹56.86 crore

Cash seizures tallying ₹48.97 crore

Gifts valued at ₹7.74 crore

Silver worth ₹1.13 crore

Diamonds valued at ₹0.09 crore

Miscellaneous items totaling ₹72.13 crore

Despite the Election Officers' vigilant oversight, some politicians, wielding illegality as a tool, continue to traverse the path of misconduct.

This ominous trend suggests a looming possibility of further seizures in the days ahead, underscoring the pressing need for sustained vigilance to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.