New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): As Bihar prepares to head to the polls on October 6 for Assembly elections and by-elections in eight constituencies, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched a major enforcement drive to clamp down on the misuse of money and illegal inducements during the campaign period.
The Commission has deployed Expenditure Observers across the state to monitor financial activities and campaign spending by candidates. These observers will meet with surveillance teams and monitor expenditure closely from the moment nominations are filed until the polls conclude.
In a bid to prevent electoral malpractice, the Commission has instructed multiple enforcement agencies — including state police, income tax authorities, excise departments, and central investigative units — to remain on high alert. Agencies such as the CISF, CRPF, GST Intelligence, Narcotics Control Bureau, and even cooperative departments have been roped in for this coordinated effort.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the use of unaccounted cash, liquor, narcotics, and freebies to influence voters. To counter this, flying squads and video surveillance teams are already in operation around the clock, tracking suspicious movements and ensuring real-time response to violations.
To streamline enforcement, the ECI is relying on its digital platform — the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS). The tool enables authorities to log and track seizures made by different teams, including paramilitary units and financial agencies, enhancing coordination and accountability.
Since the election schedule was announced, authorities have already confiscated goods and cash worth over ₹33.97 crore, according to official figures — a sign of the proactive enforcement drive underway.
The Election Commission has also reminded officers that enforcement efforts must not inconvenience ordinary citizens or lead to undue harassment. Officials are urged to maintain professionalism while acting decisively against violators.
Voters too can play a role in this drive. The Commission has invited public participation by encouraging the use of its cVIGIL mobile app, through which citizens can report incidents of bribery, inducement, or any other electoral offence with just a few clicks.
With these robust measures in place, the ECI has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in Bihar.
