Tamil Nadu Assembly election: Merchants seek clarity on documents, higher cash limit during elections in Salem

The Salem Shevapet Maligai and Shop Varthaga Nala Sangam (Merchant Association) has appealed to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to raise the cash-carrying limit from ₹50,000 to ₹3 lakh and to issue clear guidelines on the documents required during election-related checks.

In a petition submitted to election officials at the Collectorate here on Wednesday (March 18, 2026), the association’s president, S.C. Natarajan, said traders were among those most affected post the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into force following the announcement of Assembly election dates. He noted that traders routinely carry cash for legitimate purposes, including procurement of goods and meeting day-to-day business expenses.

While the ECI has directed that valid documents be carried when transporting cash exceeding ₹50,000, traders remained uncertain about the specific documents that would be accepted during vehicle checks, he said, seeking clarity on the issue.

Mr. Natarajan further pointed out that the existing cash limit had been fixed several years ago and was no longer adequate in view of rising commodity prices. Emphasising that traders handle cash as part of regular business transactions, he urged the Commission to enhance the limit to ₹3 lakh.