Movement of Cash and Freebies during Elections

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Context

• The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has been enforced nationwide since the announcement of Lok Sabha elections.
• Law enforcement agencies are on high alert for the movement of cash, liquor, jewellery, and other freebies that could influence voters.

Model Code of Conduct: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/model-code-of-conduct

Incident in Tamil Nadu and EC's Rules

• A video of Tamil Nadu police seizing Rs 69,400 from tourists went viral on social media.
• The incident underscored the Election Commission's (EC) stringent rules for carrying cash and items during elections.

Measures to Curb Money Power

• The EC issues detailed instructions to police, Railways, airports, and other agencies to monitor cash, liquor, jewellery, drugs, and gifts.
• Expenditure observers, static surveillance teams (SST), and flying squads are deployed for vigilance.
• Flying squads include a Senior Executive Magistrate, police officer, videographer, and armed personnel.
• They are equipped with vehicles, mobile phones, video cameras, and necessary documents.
• Surveillance teams operate checkposts, changing locations frequently to maintain surprise.
• Enforcement efforts are intensified in the final 72 hours before polling.

Rules for Carrying Cash and Items

• Citizens are impacted by strict rules on cash carrying during elections.
• CISF/police at airports are instructed to report cash over Rs. 10 lakh or more than 1 kg in bullion to the Income Tax Department.
• The Income Tax Department verifies cash and bullion to prevent political affiliation.
• Seizure is possible until verification is completed to prevent influence peddling.