Election Malpractices: An Unfair Advantage Unveiled

Elections, the cornerstone of democracy, are supposed to be fair and transparent. However, the reality presents a murky picture marred by various forms of malpractices. These practices not only undermine the integrity of the electoral process but also erode public trust in the democratic system. This article delves into some of the most visible and punishable malpractices observed in Indian elections, focusing on their impact and the role of election machinery and law enforcement agencies.

Freebies Without Budgetary Oversight

One of the most pronounced forms of malpractice is the declaration of freebies without a proper understanding of the state's budget and surplus. This practice involves promising voters free goods or services without accounting for the budget constraints and the potential fiscal burden. For instance, an election candidate might announce a massive offering of free electricity or free milk, without any consideration for the state's financial limits. This not only disrupts budgetary planning but also manipulates voter perceptions and expectations, leading to an uneven playing field.

Abusive and Derogatory Language against Opponents

Another common malpractice is the use of abusive and derogatory language against opponents. This tactic not only lowers the tone of the political discourse but also intimidates and disrupts the competitive spirit. Political attacks often descend into personal attacks, spreading false narratives and provoking unnecessary conflicts. This practice stealthily distorts the essence of democracy, where peaceful and respectful competition is essential for a fair outcome.

Rampant Use of Black Money

The use of black money, or undeclared and often illegal money, is a pervasive issue in election financing. Candidates and electoral parties often rely on black money to fund their campaigns, using this illicit capital to finance their activities and spread influence. This practice allows politicians to freely allocate resources without oversight, leading to an unlevel playing field and undermining fair competition.

Use of Muscle Power to Influencer Voting

A significant malpractice in elections is the use of muscle power to influence voter behavior. This involves threats, coercion, and physical intimidation to compel voters to support a particular candidate or party. Such practices are outright illegal and unequally tip the scales, adversely affecting the outcome. This form of bullying not only tramples on the integrity of the electoral process but also violates the fundamental right to a free and fair vote.

The Bias of Election Machinery and Law Enforcement Agencies

Perhaps the most insidious aspect of election malpractices is the indirect promotion by the very entities charged with maintaining neutrality. The election machinery, including the Election Commission and law enforcement agencies, are expected to be impartial. However, in many instances, they become skewed by political pressures, leading to a biased administration of duties. This compromises the integrity of the electoral process and creates an skewed advantage for those in power.

Theoretical Punishments and Practical Challenges

Theoretically, all these malpractices are punishable under electoral laws. However, the practical implementation often falls short. Convictions are notoriously challenging, especially given the corruption inherent in some legal and law enforcement systems. This lack of effective enforcement sends a signal of impunity, emboldening political actors to continue with malpractices. Moreover, the information and evidence required for prosecution are difficult to gather, further exacerbating the issue.

Addressing and Combating Malpractices

To address these malpractices, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Firstly, there must be stringent regulations on election funding, with more rigorous scrutiny of campaign finances. Secondly, public awareness campaigns can help educate voters about the importance of a fair and transparent electoral process. Additionally, law enforcement agencies must be reformed to ensure strict impartiality in election-related tasks. Lastly, independent and transparent monitoring mechanisms can provide needed oversight and ensure that electoral laws are enforced to the letter.

In conclusion, the malpractices in elections, including freebies without budgetary oversight, abusive language, use of black money, and the use of muscle power, seriously undermine the integrity of our democratic system. By understanding these issues and taking concrete steps to address them, we can foster a more robust and fair democratic process for the benefit of all citizens.