The Election Commission has claimed to have taken all possible steps to prevent distribution of money among voters by candidates and their associates on Wednesday night ahead of the first phase polls to be held on Thursday.
Besides, the commission informed that it would put in place measures to curb electoral malpractices like illegal distribution of liquor, gifts, transportation of money and extravagant expenditure.Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mona Sharma said the Excise Department has already registered 1,578 cases and 1,272 persons have been arrested on various charges so far.While dry day is being observed in the areas where polls would be conducted on Thursday, the Commission said it has erected check-posts in all State borders to monitor illegal liquor and money transport.
Every Assembly area has three static surveillance teams to check liquor and money distribution during the election. Intelligence squads will also keep a watch on malpractices related to the election.“We have pressed into service Flying Squads, Observers and Excise Department personnel to monitor distribution of money during elections. Besides, we have asked the district Collectors to go for night patrolling as there is possibility of money distribution during night to influence the voters,” Sharma said.