Indian officials have confiscated illicit assets, including money, drugs, and other items, totalling $1.1 billion in the ongoing six-week electoral period, surpassing the total seizures from the 2019 general election, according to the Election Commission of India.
This action is part of a broader commitment to combat the use of such inducements to sway voters in the world’s largest election. Drugs alone accounted for 45% of the total value seized.
Additionally, authorities have seized liquor, cash, precious metals, and various other items intended to influence voters.
The election, which began on April 19, will conclude on June 1, with the election results announced on June 4. India strictly prohibits the bribery or intimidation of voters during elections.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Opposition saying this is “Modi’s era”, adding that ceasefire violations have been reduced at the border during his 10-year regime.
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is expected to secure at least 46 out of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra.
He called the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led MahaYuti government “an illegal” government.
India recently expressed optimism regarding Palestine’s bid for full United Nations membership, which was recently thwarted by the United States.
In April, the US vetoed a resolution in the UN Security Council that sought to recommend Palestine’s admission as a full member to the UN General Assembly.
Despite the veto, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, emphasized India’s longstanding support for Palestine’s aspirations.
