MARGAO: In a bid to streamline the release of seized cash and address public grievances effectively, a special committee has been formed, as per an order issued by Asvin Chandru, Collector and District Election Officer.
Comprising government officials Deepali Naik, Walter D’Mello, and Chetan Dharangutti, the committee is tasked with examining each case of cash seizure made by police, the static surveillance team (SST), or flying squad. The committee will intervene where no FIR/complaint has been filed against the seizure or where the seizure is unrelated to any candidate, political party, or election campaign.
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Under the standard operating procedure, the committee will promptly order the release of seized cash to the rightful owner, following a speaking order to that effect. Additionally, all details regarding the release of cash will be meticulously documented by the nodal officer for expenditure monitoring.
Notably, individuals carrying more than Rs 50,000 in cash are required to possess valid documentation, as announced by the District Collector previously. The order emphasises that if the release of cash exceeds Rs10 lakh, the nodal officer of income tax must be informed beforehand.
Furthermore, all cases of cash seizure by FS, SST, or police authorities will be expeditiously brought to the attention of the district committee, for timely action. No seized cash or valuables will be retained in the malkhana or treasury for more than seven days after the date of the poll, unless an FIR/complaint is filed.
