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Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu: Election officials in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris district made headlines after seizing Rs 69,400 cash from a Punjab-based family vacationing in the area. The incident sparked public outrage, especially after a viral video showed a woman emotionally pleading with officials to return the confiscated money. Subsequently, the tourists regained possession of their funds.
The cash seizure occurred during a routine vehicle check on Sunday, conducted in adherence to the Model Code of Conduct ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The Election Commission’s announcement of poll dates on March 16 triggered the implementation of these rules.
The tourists, unaware of the Model Code of Conduct regulations, found themselves in a distressing situation as officials confiscated their cash. In the viral video, both the woman and her husband attempted to explain their ignorance of the rules to the authorities.
After verifying the tourists’ documents on Monday, the Nilgiris assistant returning officer facilitated the return of the seized amount. The action came in response to the tourists’ compliance with the necessary procedures.
The Election Commission’s guidelines stipulate the seizure of cash exceeding Rs 50,000 and new articles or gifts valued over Rs 10,000 to prevent electoral malpractice. However, individuals can reclaim seized items upon presenting valid documentation and asserting their disassociation from electoral activities.
The incident sparked criticism on social media, with many questioning the perceived harassment of ordinary citizens under the guise of enforcing poll code regulations. The episode underscores the delicate balance between upholding electoral integrity and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
