The Supreme Court observed in a judgment on Monday (August 17, 2026) that ridding the electoral process from the influence of black money is a responsibility of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
It has been recognised time and again, but not yet resolved. The top court urged for timely investigations and conclusion of criminal cases relating to recovery of ill-gotten money during the elections.
The court said the bane of tainted money circulating and influencing voters’ choices was an age-old problem. The court cautioned that “any external factors that may influence this exercise of choice have the ability to compromise the very essence of democracy”. Referring to seizure of cash and assets during the election process, the Bench further said: “The authority affecting the seizure must, within 24 hours, report the same to the District Magistrate/Additional District Magistrate/Court having competent jurisdiction along with written reasons disclosing the prima facie nexus between the cash or other asset seized and the suspected electoral offence.”
Justice Karol directed that when FIRs are registered, the investigation officer (IO) entrusted with the probe has to make every possible endeavour to complete it within a year.
“If this timeline is exceeded, reasons therefore shall be recorded and communicated to the Election Commission of India,” the Bench pointed out.
Asking the Election Commission and State governments to file a compliance affidavit by November 18, the Bench directed the IO to submit a quarterly status report regarding the investigation to the electoral body. When Static Surveillance Teams find money in excess of ₹10 lakh during checks, information should be forwarded to the Income Tax authorities, the top court said.
