Total expenditure in general elections in India 1998-2019

The total expenditure in the Lok Sabha election in 2019 was estimated to be over 550 billion Indian rupees. The expenditure almost doubled as compared to the previous general election, supposedly making it the costliest election in the world.

Where is the money spent?

It is difficult to estimate the real spending on elections because most of the spending is not publicly disclosed. While there is a cap on the expenditure of candidates, political parties can spend an unlimited amount of money. The expenditure estimates include spending on campaigning or publicity, payments to voters directly, logistics, formal Election Commission spending, and other miscellaneous purposes. The costs of social media advertising are expected to rise in the upcoming elections of 2024 given the scope of outreach and connectivity with the electorate.

Is “One nation One election” the solution?

The BJP-led government of India recently suggested “One nation One election” or simultaneous general and state assemblies’ elections every five years to reduce the costs of elections. However, the idea is being critiqued for its one-size-fits-all concept disrupting the federal fabric of democracy and limiting the power of regional parties. Political analysts suggest that in the past, people tended to cast their vote for the same party when simultaneous elections were held which was favorable for larger national political parties. Additionally, an election every five years will make political parties less accountable.