EC to relax cash carrying amount rules

The Election Commission of India (EC) is likely to increase the amount of cash one is allowed to carry in the state — from the current Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2.50 lakh — during the period when the model code of conduct is in force,not only due to the fact that the people were facing inconvenience but also because there was a shortage of income tax officials.

According to sources,in Wednesday’s meeting between the EC,state government and Punjab chief electoral officer,this matter was raised. SAD spokesman Dr Daljeet Singh Cheema said: “The delegation brought to the notice of the Commission unnecessary harassment being faced by the common man — particularly shopkeepers,traders and businessmen — over recovery of cash over Rs 1 lakh. As the amount was too small for traders and businessmen,they are the worst sufferers. The deputation informed the Commission the frequent checking on the highways has created a sense of terror in the minds of the people. It seems as if emergency has been imposed in the state.”

“The Commission had not increased the limit of Rs 1 Lakh in recent the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections despite requests. But here,they were of the view that the limit could be raised keeping in mind the practical problems. Anytime now orders in this regard are expected from the EC,’’ said an official.

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State Chief Electoral Officer Kushamjit Sidhu said,“Till date,static surveillance teams across the state have seized unaccounted money worth Rs 5 crore. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Today,Rs 47 lakh was seized. The traders,property dealers and petrol pump owners have raised this issue as they have to deal in cash and carry large amounts.”

Admitting that there was a problem of verification of the seized cash and documents due to shortage of income tax officials,she added: “Only 22 income tax officials across the state look into such matters and they have to move from one place to another. Thus,people have to wait for the officials to come to the spot and take stock of the seized material.”