NDTV Battlegrounds: Electoral bonds ahead of polls, experts discuss implications

NDTV Battleground discusses Maharashtra dynamics in Lok Sabha elections

New Delhi:

The issue of electoral bonds came up today when NDTV was discussing with political analysts on the Lok Sabha elections and the political dynamics in Maharashtra.

Political analysts asked whether the issuance of electoral bonds would have a significant impact on voters.

The Supreme Court struck down the electoral bonds scheme on the grounds that it violated citizens’ right to information.

“50 per cent of the funds went to the BJP and the remaining 50 per cent to other parties. But cash is still king. I believe even today, 90 per cent of transactions are still done in cash,” political analyst Amitabh Amitabh Tiwari NDTV Editor-in-Chief Sanjay Pugalia said.

“There have been many major movements against corruption in India. Voters now know a lot. They watch the news, they watch TV. They take informed decisions,” Mr. Tiwari said.

Political analyst Maneesha Priyam said whether the issuance of electoral bonds will be labeled “corruption” will be known in due course. “The electorate will come to a referendum. Will it be called corruption? That remains to be seen,” Ms. Priam said.

The Supreme Court today directed the State Bank of India (SBI) to disclose all details related to electoral bonds that allow individuals and companies to donate to political parties. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said this must include the “serial number” of each bond.

The court directed the SBI chairman to file an affidavit by 5 pm on Thursday, saying that no details were withheld. It also told the Election Commission to upload the details as soon as they are obtained from SBI.