Jammu and Kashmir Elections: In a significant move during the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, 23 government officials were suspended for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The Jammu & Kashmir State Election Commission also reported the seizure of Rs 130 crore by enforcement agencies in connection with these violations.
The election commission further revealed that 20 employees were transferred to different tehsils and districts after complaints were filed against them for allegedly favoring a political party. Additionally, six contractual and ad hoc employees were disengaged for breaching MCC guidelines.
The bulk of the Rs 130 crore seized came from the Police Department, which confiscated Rs 107.50 crore. Other significant contributions included Rs 9.88 crore by the Central Goods and Services Tax Department, Rs 8.03 crore by the State Goods and Services Tax Department, Rs 2.06 crore by the Narcotics Control Bureau, Rs 87 lakh by the Income Tax Department, and Rs 50 lakh by the State Excise Department.
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Jammu & Kashmir, PK Pole, disclosed that approximately 7,088 permissions were granted to various political parties and candidates. These permissions were related to rallies, processions, the opening of party offices, vehicle use, banners, flags, hoardings, door-to-door canvassing, helicopters, video vans, and other campaign-related activities.
Out of 1,263 reported MCC violations, 600 cases have been closed following investigations and appropriate action, while 364 cases remain under investigation. Pole also stated that 115 notices have been issued to candidates, political parties, and media outlets for reported MCC violations.
Furthermore, enforcement agencies registered 32 FIRs for illegal activities related to drugs, cash, and liquor during the elections.
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