TFP Bureau, Raipur; March 21, 2024: The Election Commission of India has designated Shri Ashutosh Pradhan, a distinguished officer of the Indian Revenue Service, as the Expenditure Observer for the pivotal Bastar Lok Sabha constituency. Embarking on his duties, Shri Pradhan convened a crucial meeting with election expenditure monitoring teams in Jagdalpur today, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance, particularly along interstate borders.
During his visit to Bastar, Shri Pradhan inspected various election expenditure monitoring units, including the Election Expenditure Accounting Cell housed within the Bastar District Panchayat Office, and provided essential directives to ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
Meanwhile, statewide efforts to uphold the sanctity of elections have yielded significant results, with surveillance teams seizing cash and goods worth a staggering Rs 2.84 crore since the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. Under the vigilant eye of enforcement agencies, illegal money amounting to Rs 95 lakh has been confiscated, alongside 7229 liters of illicit liquor valued at Rs 16 lakh.
Moreover, intensive investigative operations have led to the seizure of 346 kg of drugs valued at Rs 92 lakh and 840 grams of precious jewelry and gems worth Rs 52 lakh. Additionally, goods worth Rs 29 lakh have been seized, underscoring the comprehensive approach adopted by authorities to curb illicit activities during the electoral process.
Chief Electoral Officer Smt. Reena Babasaheb Kangale has issued stringent guidelines to District Election Officers and Superintendents of Police to maintain law and order throughout the duration of the Lok Sabha General Elections. The ongoing efforts to monitor and mitigate illegal transportation and storage of money and goods underscore the commitment of authorities to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure free and fair elections in the state.
