LokSabha 2019: Taxmen to keep tabs on cash flow

Mumbai : The income tax department (IT) has been roped in to check the growing flow of cash during Lok Sabha election. The Election Commission (EC) has given a mandate to the department to gather intelligence and keep strict watch over movement of cash and valuables in constituencies and take necessary action under the IT law. 

Keeping vigil on the flow of cash is a big challenge for the EC. Therefore, the EC has given a mandate to the I-T department.
 
The I-T department, Mumbai has undertaken a number of measures towards fulfilling its mandate for ensuring free and fair election. 

“Contribution by the residents of Mumbai would further help the process of gathering actionable information and curb the use of unlawful means of influencing elections in the constituencies of Mumbai,” said Kishor Kumar Vyavhare, Director General of Income tax (Investigation) Mumbai. 

He was speaking in a press conference held to give information about the department’s preparedness for the election process. 

In order to encourage the residents of Mumbai to contribute to the process, the department has set up a control room, which will work 24X7. The concerned citizens can contact the the toll free number and other numbers (see box) to report any movement of cash or valuables suspected to be used for electoral purpose.

For swift and quick response to any intelligence, six quick responses team have been stationed in different parts of the city. In addition, air intelligence units have been stationed at all air bases of Mumbai to keep vigil over any movement of cash.
 
“The Income Tax department of Mumbai is also closely co-ordinating with other State and Central agencies so as to gather information and take necessary steps to ensure that the elections are conducted free and fair manner,” Vyavhare further said. 

He further urged Mumbaikars that all residents should proactively make use of the facilities and contribute towards ensuring free and fair Lok Sabha elections.