Panaji: As 48 hours prior to the day of voting for the Lok Sabha polls is considered to be a crucial period when there is a high possibility of  cash or goodies being distributed to influence voters, the agencies involved in surveillance will step up the checks during this period.

Sources said that in view of the model code of conduct, which is in force, the various agencies involved in surveillance will keep a close watch on activities.

Sources also said that ‘poders,’ milkmen as well as newspaper delivery boys are on the radar of Goa police, as they could be the likely carriers of money ahead of the polls. However, their modus operandi can change this election to avoid coming under the scanner and as such, the police are watchful, said sources.

It has been observed that bread vendors (poders) and milkmen are usually used by candidates to distribute cash to voters ahead of the elections. According to sources, during the previous election, police had observed such activity at the fag-end and could not do much about it.

The bread vendors, milkmen and newspaper delivery boys move from house to house and they are the easy carriers to distribute money to voters, claimed sources adding that this time though new techniques could be adopted. However, the police are keeping a close watch.

Police are also monitoring casinos and keeping an eye on any illegal gambling activity including matka. Sources claimed that a rise in such activities is an indication of free flow of money. With regard to illegal gambling activities, raids are being conducted based on information received.

The police is also working in coordination with banks as well as other agencies such as commercial tax department to monitor huge cash withdrawals/transfers or the rise in sale of electronic or other goods. These measures have been taken with the sole intention of conducting a free and fair election, claimed sources.