Dem India 2

What is the Lok Sabha?

The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's Parliament, expected to be ruled by the BJP in 2024.

What party ruled India as a single-party for a decade prior to 2024?

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

What is the role of the Election Commission of India (ECI)?

The ECI supervises, directs, and conducts state and national elections.

Why were questions raised about the ECI's independence in 2014?

Concerns arose regarding the timing of elections and the appointment process for election commissioners.

What is the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

The MCC is a framework of norms that guide political parties during elections.

What controversy arose regarding the timing of elections announced by the ECI?

The ECI announced election times in some districts but not others, giving the BJP an advantage.

What was the Supreme Court ruling in Anoop Baranwal v. Union of India (2023)?

The ruling mandated that Election Commissioners be appointed by the President on the advice of a committee including the Prime Minister, leader of the Opposition, and Chief Justice.

What issue arose with the nominations of candidates in the 2024 elections?

The ECI rejected Congress candidates' nomination papers due to discrepancies, while BJP candidates ran unopposed.

How has political finance changed under Modi's government?

Changes include the introduction of electoral bonds, which allow anonymous donations to political parties.

What legal action was taken regarding electoral bonds in 2024?

A suit was filed claiming that electoral bonds undermined voters' right to know about party funding sources.

What pattern was observed regarding donations to the ruling party?

There was a pattern of firms giving to the ruling party, indicating possible quid pro quo arrangements.

What happened to Hemant Soren, the Jharkhand chief minister?

He was forced to resign amid corruption charges that were possibly orchestrated by the BJP.

What charges led to the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, the Delhi chief minister?

He was arrested on charges related to a liquor scam.

What issue did the Congress Party face regarding its bank accounts?

The Congress Party's bank accounts were frozen due to a dispute with federal tax authorities over alleged violations of tax exemption laws.

What is the significance of transparency in elections according to the ECI?

Transparency helps reassure citizens that elections are fair.

What accusations were made against the ECI regarding the enforcement of the MCC?

There were accusations of selective enforcement, favoring Modi and the BJP while silencing opponents.

What is the concern regarding the rapid selection of Election Commissioners?

There is concern that the government could pack the ECI with favorable appointments.

What does the term 'quid pro quo' refer to in the context of political finance?

It refers to a situation where donations to political parties are exchanged for favorable treatment or benefits.

What has been the historical issue with political finance in India?

Political finance has always been opaque, with strict limits on candidate expenditures but no limits for parties.