The Davanagere police have launched a strict drive to ensure a free and fair by-election in the Davanagere South Assembly constituency.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Superintendent of Police Dr. H. Shekhar said 11 check-posts have been set up and eight flying squads are actively patrolling the district following the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct.

“So far, we have registered seven liquor cases and seized 22 litres of illicit liquor,” Dr. Shekhar said.

All cases involve unauthorised sale or transport of liquor without valid permits.

In a major morning operation today, officers at the Maganahalli check-post (under Azad Nagar police station) seized ₹1,12,000 in unaccounted cash.

The person claimed the money was for purchasing rice flour from Channapatna, but could not produce any documents.

“The cash has been seized. It will be verified by a committee headed by the Chief Electoral Officer. If the documents are found valid, the money will be released; otherwise, further action will be taken,” the SP added.

Dr. Shekhar assured that the police are fully committed to preventing any electoral malpractices.

“We will continue intensive checks in the coming days as per the directions of the Election Commission of India and the District Collector,” he said.

The police have appealed to the public to cooperate and report any suspicious activities to help maintain peace and transparency during the by-election.