Election Panel Will Review Fake Note Charges

Hyderabad: With Nizamabad police registering cases against contesting candidates allegedly involved in circulating fake currency notes, the State Election Commission is likely to examine the issue and has reportedly obtained preliminary reports.

Sources said the Commission will seek reports from local authorities. Contesting candidates are required to file affidavits, including expenditure details, within 45 days of polling. Based on these affidavits and expenditure records, the Commission will initiate action against those suspected of circulating fake notes.

A few days ago, Varni police in Nizamabad district registered cases and arrested at least nine persons for allegedly circulating fake currency during the panchayat elections. Police recovered ₹9 lakh in fake notes from the accused. Varni sub‑inspector Raju said investigations are underway to establish how the counterfeit notes were circulated during the polls.

The case began with a complaint from bank staff who received ₹2 lakh in fake ₹500 notes from a farmer clearing a crop loan. Investigations later identified nine persons involved in circulating counterfeit notes during the elections.

“Since the news broke that fake currency notes were in circulation during the panchayat elections, it has been a tough time for Jalalpur residents to carry out routine business transactions in cash. If we shop for something and give a ₹500 note, shop owners refuse to accept it, suspecting it to be fake. In Jalalpur, people are opting for digital transactions like PhonePe, G‑Pay and other modes,” said Venkat, a resident of Jalalpur.

Following the incident, police across several districts have stepped up vigil against fake currency circulation. However, voters who accepted notes during the elections have not come forward to report the issue, fearing police action against them for accepting money during polls.