Throwing the election commission’s guidelines to the winds with respect to the forthcoming by-elections in the state, political parties and contesting candidates seem to be heavily depending on money power to test their fortunes.

This has become clear after the police, acting on the instructions of the state election officials, began frisking and seized Rs.44 lakh cash from different cars and individuals today in two districts.

Police found and seized Rs.30 lakh cash from a car at the Devarakadra check post in Mahaboobnagar district this morning. They have also seized the car and are questioning the persons travelling in the car to find out the sources for the money. The amount was handed over to the Income Tax officials.

In a second incident, police recovered Rs.14 lakh cash from a person at Macha Reddy check post in Nizamabad district. The person was arrested after he failed to provide explanation for the source of the money.

By-polls are being held in both the districts and police suspect the money is being transported by political parties. (JUBS)