Danger, democracy

In the run-up to Erode (East) by-elections, there are widespread complaints of gifts, including silver anklets, pressure cookers, silk sarees, and cash being distributed by both fronts, the Election Commission has deployed three flying squads in the constituency to curb this.Sources in the AIADMK said that the DMK and Congress have been indulging in widespread corrupt practices to woo the electorate and supplying Rs 500 and silk sarees to voters. If the voters are refusing the silk sarees, an additional Rs 1,000 is given. Chicken biryani is an added bonus being distributed by the DMK and Congress combine, AIADMK alleges. Not to be left behind, the DMK sources pointed out the AIADMK cadres were distributing silver anklets and pressure cookers.People who give cash for votes as well as those who accept the money will now be punishable by law with imprisonment of up to one year. The punishment could include imprisonment or fine or both. But this has hardly resulted in stopping cash for votes culture. It has been become a big challenge for the election commission to prevent political parties and candidates from bribing voters as new and innovative methods for bribing voters have emerged including digital payments and through cash wallets.