Political Fundraising Rollercoaster: BJP Soars, Congress Takes a Dip
Is Congress interested in the ‘Donate for Desh’ initiative or is it ‘Donate for Congress’? The Indian Media is raising this question for the alarming situation of Congress the ‘Opposition’ of the Ruling Government.
In the dynamic world of Indian politics, financial support plays a crucial role, and the latest report from the Election Commission of India reveals a fascinating tale of fortunes for the two major political players – the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress.
BJP’s Money Magnetism
Source: Google
The saffron wave seems to be riding high not just in electoral victories but also in the realm of fundraising. According to the report, the BJP has seen a substantial surge in donations, raking in a whopping ₹719 crore in the fiscal year 2022-23. This marks a remarkable 17.1% increase from the previous financial year when the party received ₹614 crore.
The BJP’s top donor was the Prudent Electoral Trust, contributing a staggering ₹252.7 crore. The surge in funds has sparked curiosity about the financial dynamics behind the party’s success.
Congress’ Fund Crunch
Source: Google
On the flip side, the Congress seems to be navigating a financial downturn. Donations to the grand old party dwindled to ₹79 crore in the fiscal year 2022-23, a noticeable drop from ₹95.4 crore in the previous financial year. The contrast in financial trajectories raises questions about the party’s fundraising strategies.
Interestingly, Kolkata-based MKJ Enterprises Ltd emerged as the top contributor to Congress, donating ₹20.25 crore. The decline in funds prompts a closer look at the financial health of the party that once dominated the political landscape.
Electoral Bonds Unveiled
Source: Google
The report sheds light on the role of electoral bonds, a financial instrument introduced in 2017 to enable anonymous political donations. BJP reportedly received ₹5,272 crore through electoral bonds between 2016-17 and 2021-22, while Congress received ₹952 crore. The Aam Aadmi Party, led by Arvind Kejriwal, secured ₹37 crore in the last fiscal year through this innovative fundraising method.
Quirky Comparisons and Beyond
The financial rollercoaster between the BJP and Congress unfolds against a backdrop of quirky comparisons and intriguing twists. While the BJP celebrates a surge, Congress contemplates its strategy amidst a fund crunch. The report not only dissects the monetary dynamics of the two major parties but also raises questions about the evolving landscape of political fundraising in India.
In this financial seesaw, the BJP’s ascent and Congress’s descent serve as a testament to the evolving contours of political finance, leaving political pundits and enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this intriguing financial saga.
Congress Unveils ‘Donate for Desh’: A Digital Call to Empower India
Source: Google
In a nod to Mahatma Gandhi’s historic Tilak Swaraj Fund of 1920-21, the Indian National Congress proudly introduces its latest initiative, ‘Donate for Desh’. The online crowdfunding campaign is envisioned to bolster the party’s efforts in fostering a more equitable India, where resources and opportunities are accessible to all. The official launch, scheduled for December 18th in Delhi, will be spearheaded by the party President.
Congress MP KC Venugopal expressed enthusiasm for the campaign, urging active participation from state-level office bearers, elected representatives, DCC Presidents, PCC Presidents, and AICC office bearers. Each contributor is encouraged to donate a minimum of Rs 1,380, symbolizing a collective effort towards the party’s vision for a more inclusive and prosperous nation.