Bank transaction beyond Rs 1 lakh 'suspicious' under EC eyes

CUTTACK: With an eye on poll expenses, the district election authorities will screen transaction through bank account beyond Rs one lakh as part of the model code of conduct.

Similarly, one could also be subjected to frisking and questioning by the expenditure squad of the Election Commission if you are travelling with over Rs one lakh cash.

"These are parts of the measures taken by the Election Commission to curb use of money power during elections", Cuttack Collector and District Election Officer ( DEO) Girish SN said here today.

"Accordingly, we have issued instructions to all the banks and post offices located in the district to ensure that they open dedicated counters for poll purpose to facilitate prompt service to the candidates in opening of bank accounts", Girish said.

The banks shall also allow withdrawals and deposits from the said account on priority basis during the election process, he added.

Girish said the bankers are also advised to ensure that their agencies carrying money to refill the ATM counters should possess valid documents showing the exact amount and names of the ATM counters, where the cash shall be stashed.

In order to monitor Print and Electronic media for checking of paid news and certification of advertisement, Cuttack district administration has formed a district level Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC), the DEO said.