With an objective to keep a check on the misuse of money and distribution of liquor during the assembly elections scheduled for the month-end, the District Administration had constituted a few flying squads. The police officials in charge of the flying squads had been instructed to remain alert for the proper implementation of the model code of conduct and to initiate action in case of any violations of the code.

However, it has been brought to the notice of the administration that the overenthusiastic flying squads are using the code of conduct to harass the public. A delegation of the Gwalior Chamber of Commerce and Industries called on the District Collector, Ashok Verma and apprised him of the seriousness of the situation. They also requested the collector to look into the matter and do the needful.

Speaking at the meeting with the collector, Praveen Agarwal, the Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries said that the police are impounding money from even colonies and side lanes. He further said that the total impounded money till date has gone over Rs 35 Lakh and that most of this amount belongs to small scale businessmen and the general public who are in no way connected with election activities. Agarwal further said that this practice of seizing money from all and sundry will certainly have a negative impact on the festive season sales.

Earlier the Divisional Commissioner BM Sharma, during a meeting with the Collector, SP and other administrative officers too had expressed displeasure at the functioning of the flying squads. He had said that seizing money from a Dengue afflicted patient was inhumane and that he was deeply pained to read about it. He had further said that carrying Rs 50000, especially during the festive season is a common thing, and that the concerned officials must employ their intelligence while dealing with such incidents.

Taking note of the objections of the business community and the stern stand of the DC, the District Administration has made some changes in the functioning of the flying squads. From now onwards every Flying Squad will be accompanied by a Magistrate and money can be impounded only after getting his orders.