HYDERABAD - With the poll panel and police in Andhra Pradesh making things difficult for political parties to distribute cash and liquor, candidates are coming out with novel methods - like distributing packets of chicken to woo the voters just hours before the polling.

Following a complaint by the main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP), police seized several packets of chicken Wednesday in Narsingpur village of Karimnagar district. The packets, containing half to 1 kg of chicken, were reportedly sent by ruling Congress party workers to woo voters.

The state is notorious for distribution of cash and liquor by political parties among voters. This time the poll official and police with the help of income tax and excise departments have made things difficult for them.

The police have already seized over Rs.250 million (Rs.25 crore) in cash during search of vehicles across the state during last two weeks.

The police Tuesday seized Rs.12.6 million (Rs.1.26 crore), the highest in a single day. ‘Attempts are being made to distribute cash and liquor but we are on alert to foil them,’ said state Chief Electoral Officer I.V. Subba Rao.

Police, income tax and excise authorities are maintaining tight vigil at 752 check posts opened for areas going to polls in the first phase.

Similarly, large number of liquor bottles and cricket kits meant for distribution among voters were also seized.

The election commission has already imposed restrictions on manufacture and sale of liquor to ensure that it is not used to influence voters.