It’s a flood of cash in Andhra. Random police checks in various parts of the state in the run-up to the election are resulting in the seizure of crores of rupees.
It’s a flood of cash in Andhra. Random police checks in various parts of the state in the run-up to the election are resulting in the seizure of crores of rupees. Police sources said about Rs1.5 crore is being seized every day.
Searches on highways are routine, but EC-appointed DGP AK Mohanty has gone a step ahead and ordered “thorough checks” of all vehicles. “The flow of cash is amazing. We have never seen such money on roads,” a senior police officer said.
Tucked in corners and under the seats of four-wheelers, cash is being transported by politicians of almost all parties to far-flung areas. Senior politicians say this is a common practice before every election, but the police action is not so common.
According to estimates, police have confiscated at least Rs5 crore in the past one week. “These are random checks. If the department takes the job seriously, I am sure the amount will go up many times,” another police officer said.
DGP Mohanty is said to be taking the task of curbing cash transfer to villages by parties very seriously. Sources said police were now checking vehicles of ministers and senior politicians as well and even helicopters rented by parties to transport leaders.
Senior election observers said politicians in Andhra and Tamil Nadu were notorious for paying cash for votes. It is estimated that every politician in Andhra is gearing up to spend between Rs2 crore and Rs5 crore to attract voters. This includes distribution of liquor. “Most candidates this time are either real estate or infrastructure developers. They all have big money and are willing to go to any extent to win,” a government employee on poll duty said.
Politicians are devising new ways of funds transfer to avoid being caught, with some carrying cash during daytime when police patrolling is less due to the increasing temperature.
The other way is to hire guest houses maintained by temples, as cops usually do not set foot on religious premises for fear of hurting sentiments.
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