The discovery of ₹5 crore in cash hidden inside a car during a routine check in Maharashtra has sent shockwaves through the state’s political scene, just weeks before the crucial assembly elections. This incident, which took place on Monday at the Khed Shivapur toll plaza on the Mumbai-Bengaluru highway, has ignited a fierce political battle, with opposition parties accusing the ruling government of attempting to sway voters with illicit funds.
Pune police, who conducted the seizure during a ‘Nakabandi’ (vehicle check) operation, reported that the cash was discovered in a white Innova car that was en route to Kolhapur. The majority of the money was in ₹500 notes.
Superintendent of Police for Pune Rural, Pankaj Deshmukh, confirmed that the Income Tax department has launched an investigation into the source and intended use of the cash, with investigators committed to uncovering the facts behind this substantial find. One of the four individuals in the vehicle claimed to be a contractor and asserted that the cash was his.
However, the opposition has pounced on this incident, alleging that the ruling parties are engaged in a blatant effort to influence voters through the distribution of illegal funds. Aaditya Thackeray, a leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), voiced his concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding large cash amounts during election season. He emphasized that the neutrality of the Election Commission is crucial for ensuring a fair electoral process.
NCP-SCP leader Jitendra Awhad echoed these concerns, questioning the oversight of helicopters, which he argued are frequently used to transport large sums of cash without sufficient scrutiny. He raised alarms about prominent leaders carrying large bags that could contain cash rather than personal belongings.
Adding fuel to the political fire, opposition leaders alleged that the police may have seized a larger sum but intentionally reported only a fraction. Sanjay Raut, a Rajya Sabha member from Sena (UBT), accused Shiv Sena MLA Shahjibapu Patil, linked to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, of having connections to the seized cash, claiming that another vehicle with an additional ₹10 crore was allowed to pass without inspection. Patil has firmly denied any involvement.
With the Maharashtra assembly elections set for November 20 and the code of conduct in effect, this cash seizure has become a highly sensitive issue. It raises serious concerns about the potential misuse of funds to influence electoral outcomes and puts the Election Commission under scrutiny, with expectations for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure a fair electoral process.