1-2 DECEMBER 2023

Crucial Role of Transparent Political Funding

Amidst the ongoing legal debates surrounding electoral bonds in India, the issue of transparency in political funding emerges as a critical focal point. The resolution of this challenge holds immense significance for the democratic fabric and rule of law in the country. Navigating this intricate landscape prompts an exploration of global perspectives on political funding regulations, highlighting their pivotal role in upholding the essence of democracy.

Global Standards on Political Funding Transparency

In the realm of political funding, a fundamental principle resonates universally – transparency. The belief that citizens have the right to know the financial supporters of political entities forms the cornerstone of a robust democratic process.

United States: A Historical Precedent

As early as 1910, the United States enacted the Publicity Act, mandating the disclosure of all political contributions. The U.S. Supreme Court, in the landmark case of Buckley v. Valeo (1976), not only upheld the requirement for public disclosure but also endorsed limits on political contributions. The court recognized the potential erosion of confidence in the political system when large, undisclosed contributions are involved, emphasizing the importance of both disclosure and contribution limits.

European Union: Striking a Balance

In 2014, the European Union implemented regulations limiting the value of donations political entities could accept per year and per donor. While smaller donations could remain anonymous, larger contributions necessitated full disclosure. The EU’s approach exemplifies the delicate balance between protecting donor privacy and ensuring transparency in political financing.

United Kingdom: Restrictions and Declarations

The U.K., through the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, imposes restrictions on political party donations and loans. Donors above a certain threshold must be declared, reinforcing the global consensus on the need for transparency.

The Indian Scenario: Electoral Bonds and the Challenge Ahead

Contrary to this global trend, recent amendments to India’s Representation of the People Act 1951 introduced electoral bonds with complete donor anonymity. This departure from international norms raises concerns about the transparency of political funding in the country.

Importance of Disclosure

Transparent accounts are the linchpin of preserving citizens’ trust in political entities. In a representative democracy, political parties serve as the pillars, and public disclosure becomes vital to maintaining the rule of law and eradicating corruption from the electoral process.

Limiting Donations to Safeguard Democracy

The imposition of limits on political donations acts as a safeguard against the undue influence of wealth in politics. Democracy should not be swayed by financial prowess, and the separation of wealth from power is foundational to a democratic system.

The Road Ahead: Towards Electoral Justice and Democracy

While challenging the constitutionality of electoral bonds is crucial, it’s equally imperative to look beyond and establish a comprehensive legal framework for political funding. The path to a healthy democracy necessitates:

• Public Disclosure Laws: Mandating the public disclosure of donors’ identities above a certain nominal limit.
• Immediate Reporting: Requiring immediate reporting of significant donations to the election commission.
• Auditing Mechanisms: Implementing independent audits of political party accounts to ensure financial transparency.
• Enforcement: Establishing robust mechanisms for enforcing these laws to guarantee accountability.

Strengthening Democracy Through Transparency

In the pursuit of electoral justice, it is not enough to merely deem electoral bonds unconstitutional. India must chart a course toward a robust legal framework that regulates political party funding and champions public disclosure. Only through such comprehensive measures can democracy be fortified, ensuring that the democratic process remains transparent, fair, and free from the undue influence of undisclosed financial contributions.

Source: The Hindu

Hubble Space Telescope:

1. Activation of Safe Mode (November 23, 2023):
   1. Hubble automatically entered safe mode due to a malfunctioning gyroscope, temporarily halting its operations.

1. Launch and Inception (April 24, 1990):
   1. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery, Hubble has served as a space-based observatory for over three decades.

1. Collaboration Between NASA and ESA:
   1. A joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), symbolizing global cooperation in space exploration.

1. Orbital Altitude and Ingenious Design:
   1. Orbits at approximately 340 miles above Earth, boasting the distinction of being the first observatory designed for in-orbit servicing.

1. Capture Across the Spectrum:
   1. Proficient in recording images in ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared wavelengths, facilitating a comprehensive exploration of the universe.

1. Landmark Servicing Missions:
   1. Demonstrating adaptability and longevity, Hubble’s successful servicing missions ensure its sustained functionality and relevance.

1. Over 1.5 Million Observations:
   1. Hubble’s expansive portfolio includes over 1.5 million observations, significantly advancing our understanding of the cosmos.

1. Revolutionizing Astronomical Understanding:
   1. Pivotal in providing astronomers with groundbreaking views and data, transforming our comprehension of distant celestial bodies.

1. Temporary Operational Pause and Gyroscope Challenge:
   1. Current operational pause attributed to a malfunctioning gyroscope, highlighting the complexities of maintaining aging yet invaluable space instruments.

1. Legacy of Human Ingenuity:
   1. Hubble’s odyssey stands as a testament to human innovation, underscoring the enduring spirit of exploration as the space community addresses the current setback.