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West Bengal: In a significant pre-election crackdown, authorities in West Bengal have intercepted a staggering haul of cash, drugs, alcohol, and gold, with a combined value exceeding Rs 147 crore. These seizures come just ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to be conducted in seven phases between April 19 and June 1.
In a separate incident, Kolkata Police intercepted a vehicle during a routine naka checking in the Jorabagan area, uncovering 15 kg of gold bars worth Rs 82 lakh. Five individuals were apprehended in connection with the smuggling operation. Preliminary investigations suggest that the gold bars were smuggled from Bangladesh through the border area of North 24 Parganas district, raising concerns about the extent of smuggling networks operating in the region.
According to data released by the Election Commission (EC), the seizure tally includes cash amounting to approximately Rs 7.87 crore, along with 12.7 lakh litres of alcohol valued at Rs 33.86 crore. Additionally, around 3.5 kg of drugs, valued at Rs 18.28 crore, have been confiscated. Notably, gold worth Rs 27.32 crore has also been seized during this period, as per EC reports.
Recognizing the susceptibility of certain constituencies to financial inducements, the Election Commission has designated six Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal as ‘financially sensitive.’ This move underscores the authorities’ commitment to ensuring free and fair elections amidst persistent challenges related to vote-buying practices.
In a recent enforcement operation conducted by the Kolkata Police, approximately 15 kg of gold bars worth Rs 82 lakh were seized in the Jorabagan area. Five individuals traveling in a vehicle were apprehended during the operation. Preliminary investigations suggest a connection to a broader gold smuggling network operating across the Bangladesh border, further highlighting the need for intensified border security measures.
