Election Commission's Zero Tolerance on Money Power in Jharkhand Elections

The Election Commission has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward the use of money power in the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections. A review meeting with various enforcement agencies emphasized coordinated efforts to curb illicit liquor, cash, and drug inflow into the state. Special focus will be on Jharkhand's borders with West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar.

The Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday firmly stated its zero-tolerance policy towards the use of money power in the forthcoming elections to the 81-member Jharkhand assembly. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. SS Sandhu, reviewed electoral preparations and consulted with political parties, security forces, and other stakeholders.

During the review meeting with nearly 20 central and state enforcement agencies—including DRI, NCB, state and central GST, RPF, RBI, state police, income tax, and the enforcement directorate—the commission emphasized its commitment to inducement-free elections. The EC conveyed its zero-tolerance stance against the use of money power in elections, according to an official release.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar cautioned officials to avoid undue harassment of the public during election checks. The EC instructed all enforcement agencies to coordinate efforts to curb the inflow of illicit liquor, cash, and drugs in the state and synchronize their route maps. Additionally, the police and excise departments were directed to target liquor and drug kingpins while focusing on inter-state border and Naka arrangements, particularly those related to the inflow of contraband from West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar.

(With inputs from agencies.)