CHENNAI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has classified Tamil Nadu as an "expenditure-sensitive State" based on past trends of high-value seizure during elections and has intensified its awareness campaign across the State to curb vote-for-cash practices.
Officials said the poll body has urged voters to reject all forms of inducements, reinforcing its message of ethical voting. "The ECI is strongly promoting slogans such as 'Don't sell your vote; don't sell your future' and 'My vote is not for sale'. Posters carrying these messages have been distributed across all districts," an Election Department official said.
District administrations have also been instructed to step up awareness campaigns and ensure strict enforcement of election rules.
During the 2024 Lok Sabha election, enforcement agencies seized cash, precious metals, drugs and liquor worth Rs 1,324.83 crore. Similarly, in the 2021 Assembly election, seizures amounted to around Rs 1,000 crore.
Officials noted that after verification, over 25% of the seized items fell outside the category of those returned upon submission of valid documents.
For the current election, surveillance has already been intensified, with flying squads and static teams seizing cash and valuables worth around Rs 350 crore so far.
Alongside enforcement, the ECI is focusing on voter awareness, urging citizens to uphold democratic values and resist inducements during the electoral process.