New Delhi [India], May 31 (HBTV): The Income Tax Department has achieved a record seizure of INR 1,100 crore in cash and jewelry during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, sources told ANI.  

Per the sources, the department had seized approximately INR 1,100 crore worth of cash and jewelry by the end of May 30 marking a 182 per cent increase compared to the INR 390 crore seized during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.  

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force on March 16, the day the Election Commission of India announced the dates for the Lok Sabha elections. Since then, the Income Tax Department has been monitoring and seizing unaccounted cash and valuables that could potentially influence voters. 

According to sources, Delhi and Karnataka topped the list for the highest seizures, with each state comprising more than INR 200 crore worth of cash and jewelry.  

Tamil Nadu followed with the second-highest seizure, amounting to INR 150 crore. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha collectively comprised more than INR 100 crore worth of cash and jewelry.  

Central agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure adherence to guidelines, focusing on monitoring the movement of cash, liquor, freebies, drugs, jewelry, and other items that could influence voters.    

Each state has established 24x7 control rooms to check the illegal movement of cash that could be used in elections by politicians.  

The MCC applies to all political parties and candidates, aiming to prevent unethical practices and promote ethical conduct.   

Individuals found carrying cash over INR 50,000 or new items worth over INR 10,000 without supporting documents will have the items seized. If the individual provides valid documents proving the items are unrelated to the elections, they will be returned. However, if the seized cash exceeds INR 10 lakh, it will be forwarded to the Income Tax Department for further scrutiny.      

(ANI) This is a syndicated news feed. HBTV has edited it for clarity.