Guwahati: Election monitoring in Assam has intensified ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, with the Election Commission of India reporting seizures worth Rs 97 crore since late February.

Officials said the crackdown includes cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements allegedly meant to influence voters. Liquor worth around Rs 20 crore and drugs valued at nearly Rs 56 crore make up a significant portion of the seizures, indicating a focused effort to disrupt illegal distribution networks during the poll period.

To enforce the Model Code of Conduct, the Commission has deployed over 5,000 flying squads and static surveillance teams across the state. Authorities have also strengthened border checks with neighbouring states to prevent the movement of illicit materials.

Across the country, election-related seizures have crossed Rs 650 crore, with states such as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu recording some of the highest figures.

Officials stressed that enforcement will remain strict but citizen-friendly. District-level grievance committees have been set up to address complaints, while voters and political parties have been encouraged to report violations using the C-Vigil app.

The measures are part of a broader push to ensure transparency and maintain a level playing field as Assam heads into a crucial electoral phase.