TEAM HERALD
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PANJIM: It’s common knowledge that most candidates during assembly elections spend crores of rupees to ensure their victory, but little is known that, what is reflected in their expenditure statements, is just 2 to 3 per cent of the total expenditure incurred.
As against the 2007 election expenditure limit of Rs 5 lakh, the limit has been now been raised to Rs 8 lakhs. However, the expenditure statements of most candidates claim that their expenditure was between Rs 1 to Rs 3 lakhs.
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A political figure associated with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), on condition of anonymity, declared that what most candidates show on paper as their election expenditure is a big joke. “Some candidates spent money ranging between Rs 1 to 2 crore,” said a NCP leader.
Joint Chief Electoral Officer Narayan Navti when questioned on this, confirmed that what is shown on paper is not even 2 per cent of the total expenditure. However, he warned that it will be tough for the candidates to hoodwink EC this time, and there would be strict implementation of the election code of conduct.
The EC has appointed 14 expenditure observers for expenditure sensitive constituencies, in addition to general observers.
There’s no denying that politicians in
In 2007, Vishwajit Rane who contested as an Independent is alleged to have distributed 600 wristwatches, besides sewing machines in Valpoi.
Industrialist MLA Anil Salgaokar allegedly got 13 bore wells drilled in Sanvordem constituency. It was also alleged that he had distributed water tanks.
Election petitions were filed against both for violating the election code of conduct, which are still pending before the High Court.
Expenditure incurred on banners, posters and other petty items is normally reflected in expenditure statement submitted by the candidates. However, what is kept hidden is the expenditure on goodies, hosting parties for young voters (with alcohol and chicken as main items on the menu), and lucrative offers made to the “unserious” candidates to withdraw from the race.
The quantum of funds paid to a candidate to back out from the race depends on his/her potential to corner votes.
“Amount paid to a candidate can range between Rs 25 to Rs 50 lakh and during this election the bid can go still higher,” said our source.
Candidates also pay cash to ensure that voters poll in their favour. “During the last election, the rate was Rs 500 per head and I’ m sure this time it will be Rs 1000 per head,” said our source.
But at least at this election, it will not be so easy for candidates to go on distributing goodies and buying votes with EC keeping a hawk’s eye on their activities.
