The recent declaration of National Political Parties of getting Rs. 102 crore in 2015-16 in donations of more than Rs. 20,000 seems troublesome to many as there are allegations that parties are deliberately avoiding complete disclosure of income source. This fact also manifests the immediate need to amend the Representation of People Act 1951 to lower the Rs. 20,000 limit. Do You Agree with the above argument. List reasons of your support/dissent.

Section 29C of the Representation of People Act, 1951 mandates that political parties need to submit their contribution details in excess of Rs 20,000 received from any person or company to the Election Commission of India annually, in order to enjoy 100 per cent tax exemption.
However, due to the national political parties getting access of funds, there is the question arising around amending the RPA 1951.
There are definite reasons which support the amendment. They are-

  • To curb black money and money laundering.
  • To break the politico-business nexus.
  • Ensure a strong foundation of electoral democracy.
  • Will curb the practice of wooing public for votes by offering goodies (vote bank politics).

 

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