Surveillance teams to check undisclosed cash during HP polls

Static and mobile surveillance teams will keep a close eye on the flow of cash during the assembly polls in Himachal Pradesh, the Election Commission said today.
State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Pushpender Rajput appealed to people to carry documentary evidence in support of possession or transportation of cash in excess of Rs 50,000.
"Carrying undisclosed cash would be kept under close surveillance and necessary action would be taken under the provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961, and in accordance with the instructions issued by the Election Commission," Rajput said.
The CEO advised that the agriculturists carrying proceeds from sale of apples should carry documents like -- proof of agricultural land holding and sale receipt.

Similarly, a person carrying cash received from the sale of property should carry copy of agreement or registered deed and any businessman withdrawing cash from bank should produce bank statement.
Any cash carried which was to be deposited in the bank should be accompanied by copy of cashbook of the business concern.

"The Income Tax Department would seize the cash as reported by static and mobile surveillance teams in the state if the same was not properly explained before the authorities," he said.
"The I-T officials may search the office and residence premises of such person under search and seizure provisions of the Income Tax Act," he said.

The I-T Department would also keep vigil over all the hotels and farmhouses and collect daily information from the hotel management or its owners regarding any suspicious movement of cash or gift.
"Any complaint received about availability of large amount of cash in a business premises or residence, necessary action would be taken with the help of police and executive magistrate under the Income Tax Laws," said Rajput.