Seizures Totaling Rs 130 Crore Reported During Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections

During the ongoing assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, authorities reported 1,263 breaches of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Enforcement agencies seized cash and materials valued at Rs 130 crore. Chief Electoral Officer P K Pole noted that the police department accounted for the largest seizure, amounting to Rs 107.50 crore.

Voting for the third and final phase is set for October 1. The first two phases saw significant voter participation, with 61.38% turnout on September 18 and 57.31% on September 26. This election marks the first since Article 370 was revoked in August 2019, with results expected on October 8.

Seizures and Investigations

Enforcement agencies have registered 32 FIRs related to illegal activities involving drugs, cash, and liquor. Seizures worth Rs 130 crore have been made by various agencies during the ongoing elections. The police department led with Rs 107.50 crore in seizures, followed by CGST at Rs 9.88 crore, SGST/CT at Rs 8.03 crore, NCB at Rs 2.06 crore, income tax department at Rs 87 lakh, and State Excise Department at Rs 50 lakh.

Out of the total MCC violations reported so far, 600 cases have been resolved after investigation and necessary action. Meanwhile, 364 complaints are still under investigation and will be addressed soon. Notices have been issued to 115 candidates, political parties, media houses, and others for alleged MCC violations.

Permissions Granted

A total of 7,088 permissions have been granted to various political parties and candidates for activities such as rallies, processions, opening party offices, using vehicles, displaying banners and flags, distributing pamphlets, putting up hoardings, holding street corner meetings, and door-to-door canvassing.

The enforcement agencies' proactive measures aim to ensure a fair electoral process in Jammu and Kashmir's first assembly election post-Article 370 abrogation. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout the election period.