Jammu-Kashmir Election Officials Suspended, Rs 130 Crore Seized for MCC Violations

Jammu-Kashmir State Election Commission suspended 23 officials and seized Rs 130 crores for violating election guidelines. The Police Department led the seizures. Additionally, six contractual employees were dismissed. Multiple permissions were granted for political activities, and several MCC violation cases remain under investigation.

The Jammu-Kashmir State Election Commission has suspended 23 government officials and seized a total of Rs 130 crore through enforcement agencies for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the assembly polls. The state election commission office reported that 20 employees have also been transferred to other tehsils and districts following complaints of acting in favor of a political party.

In addition, the commission has disengaged six contractual and ad hoc employees for MCC guideline violations. Various enforcement agencies, including the Police Department, Central and State Goods and Services Tax Departments, Narcotics Control Bureau, Income Tax Department, and State Excise Department, contributed to the total seizure amount. The Police Department made the highest seizure at Rs 107.50 crore.

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of J&K, PK Pole, stated that about 7,088 permissions were granted to political parties and candidates for rallies, processions, and other campaign-related activities. Out of 1263 MCC violations reported, 600 cases have been closed after investigation and appropriate action, while 364 cases remain under probe. Additionally, 115 notices have been issued to candidates, political parties, media houses, and others for alleged MCC violations. The enforcement agencies have also registered 32 FIRs related to carrying drugs, cash, and illegal liquor.

(With inputs from agencies.)