Model code of conduct may impact wedding planners carrying cash, gold in Jubilee Hills constituency

With the model code of conduct in force for the Jubilee Hills bypoll, families planning weddings in November may face hurdles due to cash restrictions and police checks. Priests say several auspicious dates fall within this period, adding to the challenge

Hyderabad: The model code of conduct (MCC) in Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency for the bye-election could pose challenges for families with weddings planned during this period.

While October has limited weddings, the first fortnight of November has several auspicious dates for marriages and other ceremonies.

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According to Veerabhadra Sharma, a senior priest and expert in fixing muhurthams for marriages and housewarming ceremonies, November has auspicious dates on 2, 3, 6, 8, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 30.

“Over 30,000 marriages are expected to be performed across the city during November,” he said.

As per the election schedule, polling for the Jubilee Hills bypoll will be held on November 11 and counting of votes on November 14, with the model code of conduct remaining in force till the Election Commission issues final orders.

However, the MCC is likely to cause inconvenience and concern among wedding planners and parents of brides and grooms, given the movement of cash and gold involved in weddings.

The Election Commission has set a limit of Rs 50,000 for carrying cash without proper documentation, and for weddings, one may have to carry wedding invitations as proof if the cash exceeds Rs 50,000.

Despite the rise in digital payments, many marriage event organisers, caterers and venue decorators still prefer cash transactions to avoid taxes.

To enforce the MCC, comprehensive checks are underway in the constituency, and the police have also formed static surveillance teams to inspect vehicles.

Election Commission Rules & Regulations for carrying cash and other items:

• Individuals found carrying cash more than Rs. 50,000 or new items worth over Rs. 10,000 without supporting documents will be seized.
• All movement of Indian currency or foreign exchange should be carried out by authorised personnel.
• Authorised personnel must carry supporting documents while moving the cash
• The movement of cash should be based on a requisition made by the receiver and should be directed to the address of the destination.

Required Proof for Carrying Cash and Avoid Seizure: Bank withdrawal slip, PAN card, Invoice or bill (if carrying goods or gifts) and Identity proof