West Bengal Elections: Over ₹510 Crore in Cash and Goods Seized Ahead of Final Voting Phase

As West Bengal gears up for the final phase of its Assembly elections, the Election Commission has reported the seizure of over ₹510 crore in cash, liquor, and other inducements. This figure surpasses the total seized during the previous elections, highlighting the Commission's efforts to ensure a fair voting process. With extensive surveillance measures, including the deployment of flying squads and CCTV installations, officials aim to eliminate electoral malpractices. The results for the elections will be declared on May 4, making this a crucial time for voters and candidates alike.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 27, 2026, 19:21 IST

Massive Seizures Ahead of West Bengal Assembly Elections

New Delhi: The Election Commission's flying squads, along with security forces, have confiscated cash, liquor, and other incentives totaling ₹510.10 crore in West Bengal. This comes as the state prepares for the second and final phase of voting for the Assembly elections on April 29, according to an official announcement made on Monday.

The total value of seized inducements has already exceeded the ₹339 crore recorded during the 2021 Assembly elections, as reported by officials.

Since the elections were announced on March 15, and following the first phase of voting on April 23, the Election Commission's seizures include ₹30 crore in cash, ₹126.85 crore in liquor, ₹110.12 crore in drugs, ₹58.28 crore in precious metals, and ₹184.85 crore in various other freebies.

To maintain the integrity of the elections, more than 2,728 Flying Squad Teams (FSTs) have been deployed throughout the state, ensuring that any complaints related to inducements are addressed within 100 minutes.

In addition to the flying squads, over 3,142 Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) have been established to conduct surprise checks at various locations.

Special operations are underway to combat the production, storage, and distribution of illegal liquor, as stated in the report.

The Election Commission initiated the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS) on February 26 to promote inducement-free voting and enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

As the voting for 142 Assembly constituencies approaches on April 29, the Election Commission has decided to enhance surveillance by installing CCTV cameras on the approach roads to critical or hypersensitive polling stations.

Previously, two cameras were placed within polling station premises—one inside the polling room and another just outside. However, reports of voter intimidation outside polling stations during the first phase prompted the decision to add external CCTV coverage this time. An insider from the Chief Electoral Officer's office confirmed that the number of CCTV installations will vary based on the sensitivity of each polling station.

The results for the West Bengal Assembly elections, covering 294 seats, will be announced on May 4.