Has Dorab R Sopariwala given the workability of using a “list” method to curb vulgar election spending a due thought (“Pressure points in poll reforms”, March 12)? A party candidate’s victory depends on total votes polled in his state. So he will have to go beyond his constituency to canvass for votes, which will increase election expenditure. Those down the list will also be tempted to spend more to increase the vote share of their party to come within the winning range. Moreover, if a candidate is elected from a constituency but is required to represent the whole state, it will add to his post-poll tour expenses.
The crux of election spending is not how much is spent but for what purpose it is spent. Money spent to communicate the party’s achievements, programmes and policies should not be grudged. However, if the money is spent on buying votes, it must be checked. A proper system of election expenditure disclosure and audit with a provision for debarring a candidate immediately for use of unfair means is more practical.
Y G Chouksey, Pune
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