Dhruv Rathee on "Chanda Ka Dhanda" and the Electoral Bond Scheme: A Critical Perspective

 Dhruv Rathee on "Chanda Ka Dhanda" and the Electoral Bond Scheme: A Critical Perspective

"In the realm of Indian socio-political discourse, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Dhruv Rathee. Known for his incisive analysis and unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, Rathee has emerged as a prominent figure in dissecting the intricacies of governance and policy. Among the myriad topics he addresses, the Electoral Bond Scheme, colloquially referred to as "Chanda Ka Dhanda" (the business of donations), stands out as a subject of significant concern and scrutiny.

Introduced in 2018 by the Government of India as an alternative to cash donations made to political parties, the Electoral Bond Scheme was hailed as a measure to promote transparency in political funding. However, its implementation has sparked heated debates regarding its efficacy and implications for democratic processes. Dhruv Rathee has been at the forefront of critiquing this scheme, offering a nuanced perspective on its ramifications.

Central to Rathee's critique is the contention that the Electoral Bond Scheme exacerbates the opacity surrounding political funding rather than fostering transparency. Unlike conventional methods of donation, which required parties to disclose the identity of donors for contributions above a certain threshold, the Electoral Bond Scheme allows for anonymous donations. This anonymity, Rathee argues, creates a breeding ground for clandestine influence-peddling and undermines the fundamental principles of accountability in a democratic system.

Moreover, Rathee emphasizes the disproportionate advantage the scheme bestows upon the ruling party, enabling them to amass substantial funds with minimal public scrutiny. The lack of disclosure requirements not only shields the identities of donors but also obfuscates the flow of funds, raising serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process. Rathee contends that this opacity fosters a culture of cronyism and erodes public trust in the political establishment.

Furthermore, Rathee highlights the inherent inequality perpetuated by the Electoral Bond Scheme, wherein the affluent wield disproportionate influence over policymaking and governance. By allowing wealthy individuals and corporations to funnel substantial sums of money to political parties without accountability, the scheme amplifies the voices of the privileged few at the expense of ordinary citizens. This, Rathee argues, undermines the democratic ideals of equal representation and inclusivity.

In his advocacy for reform, Rathee advocates for greater transparency and accountability in political funding, urging policymakers to revisit the Electoral Bond Scheme in light of its shortcomings. He calls for stringent disclosure norms that mandate the public disclosure of all donations received by political parties, regardless of the mode of contribution. Additionally, Rathee advocates for the implementation of robust mechanisms to curb the influence of vested interests and safeguard the integrity of democratic processes.

In conclusion, Dhruv Rathee's critical examination of the Electoral Bond Scheme underscores the imperative of upholding transparency, accountability, and equity in political financing. By shedding light on the inherent flaws of the scheme, Rathee challenges us to reevaluate our commitment to democratic principles and strive towards a more just and equitable political landscape. As the discourse surrounding electoral reforms continues to evolve, Rathee's insights serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and action towards a more transparent and inclusive democracy."