Mumbai, April 6 -- The Election Commission of India on 5 April 2026 said seizures linked to inducements in poll-bound states have crossed Rs 650 crore, underscoring intensified enforcement ahead of the ongoing assembly elections and bye-elections.

The Commission noted that since the activation of the Electronic Seizure Management System (ESMS) on 26 February 2026, total seizures have reached Rs 651.51 crore across Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. This includes Rs 53.2 crore in cash, liquor worth Rs 79.3 crore, drugs valued at Rs 230 crore, precious metals worth Rs 58 crore, and freebies and other items amounting to Rs 231.01 crore.

Among states, West Bengal recorded the highest seizures at Rs 319 crore, followed by...