Chennai: In a significant pre-election crackdown, officials have seized over Rs 2 crore in unaccounted cash from the Mylapore Assembly constituency, intensifying political tensions on the eve of polling in Tamil Nadu.
The seizure was carried out by flying squads deployed under the supervision of the Election Commission as part of heightened surveillance to curb electoral malpractices.
Authorities suspect that the cash was intended for distribution to voters, a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.
An investigation has been launched to trace the source of the money and identify those involved in the alleged operation.
Officials indicated that documents recovered during the raid could provide crucial leads into the intended beneficiaries and distribution network.
The development comes amid a statewide crackdown on illegal inducements, with enforcement agencies stepping up monitoring across constituencies ahead of the April 23 Assembly elections.
Large-scale seizures of cash, liquor, and other materials have been reported in recent days, as officials attempt to ensure a level playing field.
Election authorities reiterated that strict vigilance would continue through polling day to guarantee free and fair elections.
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu is witnessing a surge in international arrivals, with overseas Tamils returning in large numbers to cast their votes.
Chennai International Airport has reported a sharp increase in passenger traffic over the past few days, as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and expatriates arrive from regions including the Gulf, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States.
Tamil associations abroad have noted a growing enthusiasm among expatriates to participate in the electoral process. Many returning voters expressed a strong sense of civic duty, with some planning extended stays to reconnect with family and witness the election results before heading back overseas.
Officials at the airport described the current influx as one of the busiest travel periods in recent times, driven largely by election-related travel. The trend underscores a rising political awareness among the global Tamil diaspora and reflects their continued engagement with the democratic process in their home state.
With campaigning concluded and polling just hours away, authorities remain on high alert, balancing strict enforcement with logistical coordination to ensure smooth and peaceful voting across Tamil Nadu.
(IANS)
