Fulbari, 19th April: With the first phase of the Bengal Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, security measures have been intensified across Siliguri and adjoining areas.
On Saturday night, officials seized ₹1.71 lakh in cash during a naka-checking operation in Fulbari.
According to sources, joint teams of the Election Commission, police, and central forces have been conducting strict surveillance through checkpoints and CCTV monitoring in the run-up to the polls. During one such operation, a vehicle traveling from Fulbari towards Siliguri was intercepted and searched.
Officials recovered bundles of cash amounting to ₹1.71 lakh from a bag inside the vehicle. When questioned, the individual present failed to provide valid documentation or a satisfactory explanation regarding the source and intended use of the money.
Authorities suspect that the cash may have been intended for election-related activities, potentially violating the Model Code of Conduct. The individual has been directed to appear before the monitoring team led by the Jalpaiguri District Magistrate.
As per reports, further action will be taken if a satisfactory explanation is not provided.