In a significant crackdown ahead of the national polls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has seized a record amount of 46.5 billion rupees ($557 million) believed to be intended for voter inducement. This amount represents the largest haul in the 75-year history of Lok Sabha elections, underscoring the ECI’s efforts to combat corruption and ensure fair electoral practices.
The seized assets, which include a substantial portion in narcotics, were collected as part of a nationwide operation to curb the use of illicit money in politics. The ECI reported that this record-setting figure exceeds the total seizures from the entire 2019 election period, which amounted to 34.7 billion rupees.
The ongoing issue of political parties using cash and gifts to influence voters is especially problematic in India, which hosts the world’s largest and most expensive elections. The ECI’s statement emphasized that these funds could disrupt the electoral playing field, favoring wealthier parties and candidates.
As India prepares for a seven-phase election to elect members to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, with the first round of polling starting this Friday, the ECI’s actions highlight a concerted effort to promote transparency and fairness. This initiative is supported by enhanced planning, inter-agency collaboration, citizen participation, and the use of technology.
The Supreme Court of India is currently addressing legal challenges against the practice of distributing free items during campaigns, a tactic critics argue equates to bribery. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party seek re-election against a coalition that includes the Indian National Congress. The election results are scheduled to be announced on June 4.