₹23 crore-worth liquor seized in dry Bihar ahead of election
What's the story
Since the announcement of the Bihar assembly election schedule on October 6, enforcement agencies have seized liquor, cash, drugs, and freebies worth ₹64.13 crore. The seizures include liquor worth ₹23.41 crore in dry Bihar. The police and other concerned agencies have also arrested 753 people during this period and executed 13,587 non-bailable warrants.
Election oversight
ECI directs agencies to step up efforts against money power
Last week, the Election Commission of India (ECI) directed several enforcement agencies to step up their efforts against the use of money power in elections. The state police, excise and income tax departments, customs, revenue intelligence, and enforcement directorates were asked to intensify their vigilance. Flying squads, surveillance teams, and video surveillance teams are working round-the-clock across the state to monitor any attempts at voter inducement.
Election schedule
Polling in 2 phases on November 6, November 11
The 243-member Bihar Assembly will go to polls in two phases on November 6 and November 11. The counting of votes will be declared on November 14. For the first phase, nomination papers were filed until October 17, while the last date for filing nominations for the second phase is Monday.
Observer deployment
General observers deployed for smooth conduct of polls
The ECI has deployed 121 general observers and 18 police observers for the first phase of the assembly polls. For the second phase, there are 122 general observers and 20 police observers. These observers have been instructed to closely monitor the election process and ensure transparency, fairness, and free conduct of elections. They will also visit polling stations to implement recent initiatives taken by the commission for voter convenience.