Pre-Poll Heat Rises: Rs 274 Cr seized, ED recovers cash linked to criminal syndicate

In a sweeping crackdown ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, authorities in West Bengal have intensified enforcement operations, seizing cash, liquor, narcotics, and other materials worth over Rs 274 crore , officials said on Wednesday.

According to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal , the cumulative seizures since February 26 amount to Rs 274.12 crore , reflecting heightened vigilance to curb illegal inducements and misuse of money power during elections.

The seizures were carried out by joint teams comprising the Election Commission of India , state police, excise department, and central agencies through raids, naka checks, and surveillance drives. Officials said the confiscated items were being transported and stored by unidentified political operatives, smuggling networks, and individuals allegedly attempting to influence voters.

The haul includes cash worth Rs 6.56 crore , liquor valued at Rs 43.37 crore , drugs and narcotics amounting to Rs 58.13 crore , precious metals worth Rs 25.46 crore , and freebies valued at Rs 140.58 crore . Additionally, 151 illegal arms and explosives have been recovered from various parts of the state.

In a parallel development, the Enforcement Directorate seized about Rs 1.2 crore in cash during searches in Kolkata as part of a money laundering probe. The action is linked to alleged criminal Biswajit Poddar , who is facing charges of attempt to murder and extortion .

Officials said the cash, recovered from a single location, was in Rs 500 denomination notes . A country-made pistol was also seized from Poddar’s premises. The agency conducted raids at around eight locations , including residential and commercial properties in the Ballygunge area , as well as premises linked to Babu Sona alias Rahul Das , Sun Group, and Jay Kamdar.

The searches are being conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act , with sources indicating that Poddar allegedly operated with political patronage . The elections to the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29 , with counting scheduled for May 4 . Authorities said enforcement measures will continue to ensure free and fair polls.