Big action by Election Commission, Rs 1072 crore seized from Tamil Nadu and West Bengal during elections

New Delhi: The Election Commission has taken major action before the 2026 assembly and by-elections. According to the press note of ECI, a total of illegal materials worth Rs 1,072.13 crore have been seized in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal from 26 February to 22 April 2026.

This includes cash, liquor, narcotics and gold and silver. Rs 599.24 crore have been seized in Tamil Nadu alone and Rs 472.89 crore in West Bengal. The Commission says that there has been a huge surge in seizures related to election irregularities in both the states.

Election Commission on high alert 

According to media reports, the Election Commission has deployed flying squad teams and static surveillance teams on a large scale in both the states. There are 5,011 FST and 5,363 SST teams working in West Bengal. Whereas 2,728 FST and 2,221 SST teams are deployed in Tamil Nadu.

The Commission has asked all parties to strictly follow the Model Code of Conduct. Also made it clear that the common people should not face any problem or harassment during the investigation. For this, grievance redressal committees have also been formed at the district level.

Appeal to lodge complaint on C-Vigil 

According to the information received, ECI has asked parties and common citizens to lodge complaints of MCC violations on ECINET portal through C-Vigil module. The Commission believes that these seizures are a major step towards fair elections free from violence, intimidation and inducement. Strict action is continuing through flying squads, static surveillance teams and other agencies.

Emphasis on transparent elections, assurance of relief to citizens 

It is noteworthy that the special observers held a meeting with the representatives of the parties and laid emphasis on fair and transparent elections. The Election Commission said that the enforcement agencies are working with utmost caution, but care is being taken to ensure minimum inconvenience to the common citizens.

According to the ECI, these seizures will further strengthen the credibility and transparency of the electoral process. The Commission has sought cooperation from political parties and common people in maintaining electoral discipline. The first phase of voting in West Bengal will take place tomorrow i.e. on 23rd April, while in Tamil Nadu also there is voting for the assembly elections. The results of both the states will come on May 4.