According to the Election Commission’s guidelines for the upcoming Loksabha elections, individuals must adhere to certain rules regarding the handling of cash and gifts as per the Election Model Code of Conduct. Those carrying cash exceeding Rs 50,000 must possess valid documentation, while amounts below this threshold do not require any paperwork.
However, any unexplained cash surpassing Rs 50,000 will be confiscated and released only upon proving its lack of association with the elections. Amounts seized over Rs 10 lakh will be referred to the Income Tax Department.
Private functions without political agendas do not need official permission to proceed.
To mitigate complications, individuals withdrawing cash should retain their passbooks as evidence. Private individuals and businessmen must furnish three documentary proofs, detailing the legal source and intended use of the funds. Anyone carrying cash above the specified limit must account for its source and destination.
Should the sum exceed Rs 10 lakh, the Income Tax Department will be notified, and release will be contingent upon providing necessary documentation. District collectors have been tasked with deploying squads to promptly seize cash exceeding Rs 50,000 from politicians and party leaders, given its presumed intent for vote bribery.