Pimpri Chinchwad: 19 washing machines confiscated for alleged voter inducement in Ganraj Colony

Washing machines were found loaded in a vehicle. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The authorities on Monday seized 19 washing machines allegedly distributed among the voters of Ganraj Colony, a residential neighbourhood located within Rahatani, Pimpri Chinchwad, ahead of the PCMC elections.

The seizure took place following a complaint received by the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Control Room. Polling for the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections is scheduled to be held on January 15. The action was carried out by the Flying Squad Team under the supervision of Electoral Officer Anil Pawar.

According to officials, the Flying Squad Team led by Rahul Nikam rushed to the spot immediately after receiving the alert at 10.23 pm on Monday. During the inspection, the team found 19 washing machines loaded in a vehicle. A formal complaint in this regard has been lodged at the Kalewadi police station, officials said.

To ensure strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, the civic administration has set up a dedicated MCC cell under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner and Election Officer Shravan Hardikar.

Various teams, including the Static Surveillance Team (SST), Flying Squad Team (FST), and Video Surveillance Team (VST), have been deployed across the municipal limits. Authorities have reiterated that strict action will be taken against any attempts to influence voters through distribution of goods or other inducements.