Overview The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of Bihar, 2025 , along with bye-elections for 8 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) . The ECI has directed State/UT governments to strictly enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) . A significant focus is on curbing illicit inducements during the election period. Key Developments Enforcement Measures Flying Squads: 824 Flying squads have been deployed across Bihar to address complaints reported on the C-VIGIL app within 100 minutes . Seizures: As of November 3, 2025 , seizures of illicit inducements have surpassed Rs. 108.19 crores . Types of Seizures: This includes Rs. 9.62 crores in cash, liquor worth Rs. 42.14 crores ( 9.6 lakh litres ), drugs worth Rs. 24.61 crores , precious metals worth Rs. 5.8 crores , and other freebies worth over Rs. 26 crores . Multi-Agency Coordination: These seizures were made through a coordinated approach involving multi-enforcement agencies across different States/UTs. Directives from the Election Commission Monitoring: The Commission has directed all Enforcement Authorities to strictly monitor and combat the movement of cash, drugs, liquor, and other inducements during elections. Citizen Convenience: The Commission stressed that enforcement authorities should ensure that ordinary citizens are not inconvenienced or harassed during checking and inspection. Public Grievance Mechanisms C-Vigil App: Citizens and political parties can report MCC violations using the C-Vigil App on ECINET. Complaint Monitoring System: A complaint monitoring system has been set up, including a Call Centre number 1950 , where complaints can be lodged by any member of the public or political party with the DEO/RO concerned. This system is operational 24X7 . UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2 (Polity - Elections) and GS3 (Economy - Prevention of Money Laundering) . It highlights the Election Commission's efforts to ensure free and fair elections by curbing the influence of illicit inducements. The use of technology like the C-VIGIL app and the deployment of Flying Squads are important aspects for Mains answers. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections. Evaluate the effectiveness of measures taken to curb illicit inducements during elections. Analyze the impact of technology on the electoral process in India. Important Facts for Prelims The C-VIGIL app is used for reporting violations of the Model Code of Conduct. The Call Centre number 1950 is for lodging election-related complaints. The amount of cash and other inducements seized during the election period is a key indicator of enforcement efforts. 824 Flying Squads are deployed to ensure quick response to complaints.