₹2.7 lakh cash seized from car in Siliguri during poll checking, businessman fails to explain source

In a major crackdown during Assembly Election 2026 surveillance, ₹2.7 lakh in cash was recovered from a car during naka checking in the Jalpaimor area of Siliguri on Saturday. The operation was carried out by the Election Commission’s Static Surveillance Team along with local police as part of intensified monitoring under the Model Code of Conduct.

According to officials, the vehicle was intercepted late at night during routine checking. The car belonged to local businessman Prashant Barman, a resident of Champasari. Upon searching the vehicle, the team recovered a substantial amount of cash. During questioning, the individual reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the source and purpose of the money, prompting authorities to seize the amount.

It is understood that Prashant Barman was returning from Gajoldoba at the time of the interception. However, due to the absence of valid documentation or a clear justification for carrying such a large sum, the officials proceeded with action in accordance with election guidelines. Under the rules enforced during the Model Code of Conduct, carrying cash exceeding ₹50,000 without proper documentation is not permitted.

The seized cash has been sent for further verification, and the individual has been directed to appear before the monitoring team. Authorities stated that the money will only be released if a valid explanation is provided, failing which legal action may follow. Following the incident, surveillance and enforcement measures have been further intensified to curb any potential electoral malpractices.