The Election Commission of India (ECI) seized more than ₹408 crore worth of illegal incentives were to influence voters in four states and one Union Territory (UT), the authority informed today.
In a March 26 press release, the Election Commission said it had taken over ₹408.82 crore worth of illegal inducements, incl ₹17.44 crore in cash, drugs worth ₹167.38 crore, the value of the liquor ₹37.68 crore (16.3 lakh litres), value of precious metals ₹23 crore and other rewards worth over ₹163.30 million crowns.
This was after the Electronic Seizure Management System (ESMS) was activated on February 26 following the announcement of parliamentary elections and March 15 by-elections, he added.
Assembly elections are due next month in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Bye-elections are also held in six states.
