Tamil Nadu polls: Cash, gold, liquor and drugs worth Rs 1,262 crore seized by EC; 163 FIRs lodged

CHENNAI: The Election Commission has seized cash, gold, liquor and drugs worth Rs 1,262 crore in the state ahead of the polls scheduled for April 23, said Tamil Nadu chief electoral officer Archana Patnaik on Wednesday.Cash amounting to Rs 543 crore was seized during vehicle checks carried out by surveillance teams, according to news agency PTI.Addressing the media on the state’s preparedness for the upcoming elections, Patnaik stated that 163 FIRs have been lodged in connection with various violations, while the social media monitoring cell has ensured the removal of 2,180 URLs across different platforms.Providing details of the electoral rolls, the official said the total number of voters in the state stands at 5.73 crore. This includes 2.93 crore female electors, 2.83 crore male electors, and 7,728 third-gender voters.The state has also recorded a significant addition of 14,59,039 first-time voters.For the voting process, a total of 75,064 polling stations have been set up across 33,133 locations. These are supported by 1,06,418 ballot units, along with 75,064 control units and VVPAT machines.To ensure a smooth and inclusive voting experience, the commission has established 249 model polling stations, 325 stations managed entirely by women, and 71 stations managed by persons with disabilities, she said.Additionally, 29 booths will be managed by youth, and several districts are piloting green polling stations, according to Patnaik.To maintain security and order, 300 companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been deployed along with 83,875 local police personnel.Responding to queries regarding mobile phone restrictions, the CEO clarified that while devices are strictly prohibited inside polling booths, a special initiative has been introduced to provide mobile collection facilities outside the stations.On the issue of potential digital bribery and online influence, the commission said it is working closely with cyber crime units to monitor social media activities and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.