With Maharashtra set to vote on November 20 for its 288-seat Legislative Assembly, authorities have intensified their vigilance to enforce the Election Commission’s Model Code of Conduct, in effect since October 15. In a major crackdown, officials have seized illegal assets worth ₹100 crore 40 lakh, including unaccounted cash, liquor, drugs, and precious metals, within just ten days of the code’s implementation, according to the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer.
Since the code of conduct took effect, 1,259 complaints have been registered on the C-Vigil app—a dedicated platform for reporting election-related violations. Of these, 1,250 complaints have been promptly addressed by the Election Commission, demonstrating swift action to maintain electoral integrity. The Chief Electoral Office encourages public participation in identifying violations, stating, “The C-Vigil App, which helps vigilant citizens to follow the code of conduct, can be downloaded from any app store. Through this app, citizens can register complaints of violation of the code of conduct.”
The response time for resolving complaints registered on the C-Vigil app has been commendably swift, with issues typically resolved within 100 minutes. In addition to the app, citizens can report violations by calling the helpline at 1950 or by visiting the Election Commission’s website at https://voters.eci.gov.in.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) had announced Maharashtra’s polling date on October 15, along with the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. Within the first three days of enforcement, officials seized assets valued at approximately ₹10.64 crore, comprising illegal cash, liquor, drugs, and valuable metals. Central and state authorities have been working in tandem to ensure strict adherence to the code, with enforcement actions starting within the first 24 hours.
As the election approaches, authorities remain vigilant to prevent any attempts to unduly influence voters through illegal means, while also encouraging the public to utilize tools like the C-Vigil app to report violations. With heightened vigilance and substantial assets already confiscated, the Election Commission’s efforts reflect a robust commitment to upholding a fair electoral process in Maharashtra.