On electoral bonds, Supreme Court must uphold Right to Information
Context:
The Electoral bonds case has highlighted the issues in India, raising concerns about transparency, legislative amendments, citizens' right to know, and proposing alternatives.
Electoral Bonds and Transparency
Intentions vs. Reality: Electoral bonds introduced in 2017 for transparent political funding.
Anonymity Quandary: Instead, allowed anonymous donations up to ?200 crore, undermining transparency.
Transparency Compromised: Raises doubts about true motive behind donor anonymity and potential quid pro quo arrangements.
Regulatory Changes and Concerns
Legislative Overhaul: Finance Act of 2017 amended several laws to pave way for electoral bonds.
Corporate Contributions: Eliminated 7.5% profit limit on company donations, potentially legitimizing crony capitalism.
Foreign Funding Shielded: Retroactive amendment shielded foreign financing of Indian elections from scrutiny.
Citizens' Right to Information
Apex Court's Precedent: Citizens' right to know settled by apex court in 2003 for transparency in elections.
Challenges: Attorney General's argument of "reasonable restrictions" on citizens' right to know questioned.
Proposals for Enhanced Transparency: Suggestions for public funding or a National Election Fund to eliminate secrecy concerns.