Staff Reporter
Panaji
Expressing concern over the recent incident involving government employees on poll duty allegedly extorting money from a businessman under the guise of income tax officials, Chief Electoral Officer Ramesh Verma on Saturday feared that such actions undermine the integrity of the electoral process and erode public trust.
“Law enforcement agencies like the excise department and police officials must take stringent action against such misconduct. It is important to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism among all officials involved in the election process,” said Verma. The CEC highlighted the dedication of most of the officials on duty, and commended their efforts in upholding the principles of democracy and urged them to remain vigilant against any malpractice or misconduct.
“The Election Commission of India (ECI) has meticulously planned and executed various initiatives to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process which includes extensive voter education campaigns, deployment of various law enforcement agencies and the establishment of robust security measures in the state. The ECI has deployed sufficient number of law enforcement agencies and has directed to maintain strict vigilance and enforce the rule of law to prevent any untoward incidents or electoral malpractices. Enhanced security measures have been implemented to safeguard polling stations, election officials, candidates, and voters from any potential threats or disruptions,” said the CEO.
Verma directed the law enforcement agencies to intensify their vigilance and enforcement efforts to prevent any further instances of fraud or corruption during the election period adding, “Instructions have also been given to enforce the prohibition of the distribution of illicit substances, bribery, intimidation, or any other activities that may undermine the integrity of the
electoral process.”
Verma called upon the government officials to refrain from political activity including propagating political party agenda on social media platforms.
As per the seizure report submitted by enforcement agency in the state, from March 1 to April 5, cash of Rs 1,562.2 lakh has been seized. Likewise, 66,620 litres of liquor worth Rs 88 lakh, and drugs of 26,088 grams worth Rs 302.8 lakh have been seized. The total amount of all seized items including liquor, drugs, freebies and other precious metals till now is
Rs 2,441.3 lakh.
Meanwhile, the Pernem excise department seized liquor worth Rs 70,931 from a store at Junaswada, Mandrem at around 10.30 pm on Friday