Punjab Chief Electoral Officer, talking to news agency ANI, revealed that around Rs. 150 crores in drugs, liquor and cash has been recovered in Punjab since the Election Model Code of Conduct came into effect on March 16.
However, this much money was recovered in just 18 days following the application of the Code of Conduct, while polling in Punjab remains 55 days away. Punjab has always faced criticism for the abundance of drugs and liquor in the state. Many election candidates also make it a point in their campaigns to address this issue. However, the amount recovered serves as a reminder as the amount is likely to increase until the polling date in Punjab (June 1).
The CEO also revealed that around 24,000 booths have been equipped with security personnel as per guidelines from the Election Commission. "According to the guidelines of the EC, all preparations on our end are complete. There are around 24000 booths, and as per our demand, we will get CAPF personnel. So far 25 companies have arrived and we are utilising the force...” he said talking to ANI. He also informed that vulnerability mapping is going on and around 5000 polling booths have been identified as vulnerable. There are 2.12 crore voters from Punjab.