In the midst of the election countdown, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has taken a bold stance against the prevailing money culture that has infiltrated the electoral process. Urging the people of the state to reject this detrimental practice, Khandu emphasized its adverse effects on the representation of eligible, capable, and honest individuals in the political arena.
Money culture, a phenomenon characterized by the exchange of large sums of money during elections, has long been a concern in Indian politics. CM Khandu points out that this practice often leads to the sidelining of genuinely qualified candidates who lack the financial resources to engage in such costly campaigns. In his view, the focus on accumulating wealth for electoral success detracts from the essential duty of elected representatives – working for the development and welfare of the people.
“Where is the time and zest for the representative, who spends crores of rupees to win elections, to think for development,” questioned CM Khandu, highlighting the inherent conflict between the pursuit of wealth and the commitment to public service. He has consistently opposed this money-centric culture, echoing his stance during the 2019 elections and continuing to publicly denounce it in various forums.
The Chief Minister’s outspoken criticism extends beyond politicians engaging in the money culture. He identifies voters who sell their votes for monetary gain as contributors to corruption, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to combat this practice. By acknowledging the role of both politicians and voters in perpetuating the money culture, CM Khandu is fostering a holistic approach to address the root causes of corruption in elections.
In 2019, Arunachal Pradesh witnessed Khandu’s resolute stance against the corrosive influence of money in politics. Now, as the electoral atmosphere builds once again, his commitment to curbing the money culture remains unwavering. By openly opposing it in every public gathering, the Chief Minister hopes to instigate change and bring this damaging practice under control.
The fight against money culture in elections is not just a political battle; it is a pursuit of a fair, transparent, and democratic electoral process. CM Khandu’s call for change resonates as a beacon of hope, encouraging citizens to prioritize values, integrity, and the genuine development of their communities over short-term financial gains. As Arunachal Pradesh approaches the upcoming elections, the Chief Minister’s words serve as a reminder that the true strength of democracy lies in the hands of those who choose to reject the corrosive influence of money on the electoral process.
