With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into force following the announcement of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, election authorities have intensified surveillance across districts, leading to the seizure of ₹2 lakh in unaccounted cash in Madurai.
According to officials, the cash was confiscated during a routine vehicle inspection conducted by a Static Surveillance Team in the Rajakkur division under Madurai East Assembly constituency. The vehicle was stopped as part of intensified checks being carried out to ensure free and fair elections. The person carrying the money reportedly failed to produce valid documentation for the cash, prompting officials to seize it in line with Election Commission guidelines.
The seized amount was deposited into the government treasury as per standard MCC procedures. Authorities have stepped up such inspections across Tamil Nadu, particularly in sensitive districts like Madurai and Tiruchirappalli, where flying squads and surveillance teams have been deployed at key junctions and highways to monitor the movement of cash, liquor, and other inducements.
Under the MCC rules, individuals are required to carry proper documentation if they are transporting cash above ₹50,000. Officials have warned that unaccounted cash or goods suspected to influence voters will be confiscated during the election period.
In addition to cash seizures, election enforcement teams have also begun removing political posters and regulating campaign-related activities. Vehicles used by flying squads are being closely monitored, and in many districts, GPS tracking systems have been installed to ensure transparency in enforcement operations.
The Election Commission has also deployed multiple layers of monitoring, including static surveillance teams, flying squads, and video surveillance units, to prevent electoral malpractices. In Madurai district alone, dozens of teams are conducting round-the-clock checks as part of the enforcement drive.
The MCC came into effect immediately after the Election Commission announced the schedule for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, which are expected to be held in a single phase later this month. Counting of votes will take place in May.
Officials have urged the public and traders to carry valid documents while transporting cash or valuables to avoid inconvenience during inspections, as strict enforcement measures remain in place throughout the election period.
