As election activity intensifies, authorities in Guwahati are on high alert following the seizure of over ₹408 crore worth of illegal inducements across poll-bound states, including Assam.
The action comes after the Election Commission of India announced the election schedule on March 15, ahead of the Assam Assembly Elections 2026.
The Election Commission has seized over ₹408 crore in illegal inducements ahead of elections. In Guwahati, strict surveillance and enforcement measures have been intensified to ensure free and fair polling.
What Has Been Seized
Between February 26 and March 25, enforcement agencies seized:
- ₹17.44 crore in cash
- ₹37.68 crore worth of liquor
- ₹167.38 crore worth of drugs
- ₹23 crore in precious metals
- Over ₹163 crore in freebies
Heightened Monitoring in Guwahati
With Guwahati being a key urban and administrative hub, authorities have intensified vigilance across the city:
- Deployment of flying squads and surveillance teams
- Random vehicle checks and checkpoints
- Monitoring of the movement of cash and goods
These measures aim to prevent illegal influence on voters.
Enforcement Mechanism
Across election-bound states, including Assam:
- Over 5,100 flying squads deployed
- Around 5,200 surveillance teams are active
- Complaints are being addressed within 100 minutes
District-level grievance committees have also been set up to handle complaints.
Public Participation in Guwahati
Residents in Guwahati can report violations through:
- C-Vigil app
- Election helpline 1950
Between March 15 and March 25, over 70,900 complaints were filed nationwide, with nearly 96% resolved quickly.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
As a politically sensitive and high-visibility region, Guwahati plays a crucial role in ensuring:
- Free and fair elections
- Transparency in campaigning
- Prevention of voter inducement
Strict enforcement helps maintain electoral integrity in the city.
What Happens Next
With polling scheduled for April 9, monitoring in Guwahati is expected to remain tight, with authorities continuing inspections and surveillance across the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How much illegal material has been seized?
Over ₹408 crore worth of cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies.
Q2. Is Guwahati under increased surveillance?
Yes, enforcement measures have been intensified across the city.
Q3. How can violations be reported?
Through the C-Vigil app or helpline number 1950.