NE POLITICAL BUREAU
CHENNAI, MAR 22
In a decisive crackdown to safeguard electoral integrity, the CGST & Central Excise, Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Zone, has rolled out a 24×7 multi-layered monitoring and enforcement system ahead of the Assembly elections, aiming to eliminate voter inducements and ensure a level playing field.
At the heart of the initiative is a round-the-clock Central Control Room in Anna Nagar, Chennai, designed to track suspicious movements, receive public intelligence and coordinate swift enforcement action across districts.
- Round-the-clock control room, flying squads and surveillance grid activated across the state
- Highways, warehouses and social venues under scanner to choke inducement networks
- Nodal officers, real-time alerts and public tip-offs to power enforcement push
- CGST-Central Excise vows zero tolerance to cash, liquor and gift-driven vote-buying
A comprehensive network of Flying Squads and Static Surveillance Teams has been deployed to intercept illegal distribution channels—from highways and inter-state borders to warehouses, marriage halls and social venues often used for covert inducement operations.
Senior officials said the strategy blends real-time intelligence, inter-agency coordination and public participation to plug loopholes exploited during elections.
Voice of democracy
Principal Chief Commissioner, CGST & Central Excise (TN & Puducherry Zone):
“We are committed to ensuring that the sanctity of the electoral process is preserved. Any attempt to influence voters through illegal inducements will be dealt with firmly and without exception.”
Senior Enforcement Official:
“This is not just surveillance—it is a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation. With 24/7 monitoring and strategic deployment, we aim to dismantle inducement networks before they reach voters.”
Election Monitoring Officer:
“Public cooperation is crucial. Every tip-off can help prevent malpractice and strengthen democracy at the grassroots.”
Key Measures at a Glance
- 24/7 Central Control Room for real-time monitoring and response
- Dedicated Nodal Officers for enforcement and coordination
- Flying Squads (FSTs) for mobile checks and surprise inspections
- Static Surveillance Teams (SSTs) guarding warehouses and storage points
- Highway Vigil across inter-state and internal routes
- Public Helplines & WhatsApp for instant reporting of violations
