Telangana politicians seem to raise the bar every other election, not in terms of good conduct but in the amount of money spent during the polls. The stage is set for a fierce electoral battle and as expected, money and liquor is flowing across the state, under the ‘watchful’ eyes of the Election Commission. However, the question before the candidates and political parties is about how much and where to use the money muscle.
“It looks like the first round is done. There are two more rounds to go,” said a grassroots level worker of a political party in Hyderabad, who is actively involved in the campaigning.
Since an early election was announced in the state after the cabinet was dissolved, the parties and their candidates had to get into the campaign mode early. Hence, the term ‘rounds’ is used not just for counting votes but also with respect to money spending.
“A candidate in our constituency has spent almost 60 per cent of the fund he had in the first round. He is really worried about how to sustain the campaigning for the next 10 days,” said a reporter who is close to a politician from north Telangana.
About Rs 5 crore to Rs 15 crore is being spent by every candidate of a major political party. Most of the money is spent on hiring people to attend public meetings, walkathons and road shows.
Around Rs 500 is given per person along with three meals and alcohol for joining the campaign. This has also resulted in a massive shortage of labour in agriculture and related sectors.
“This is Rabi season and it is almost impossible to get workers,” said a local leader-cum-farmer, B. Krishna Reddy, from Adilabad district. “Each farm labourer is paid around Rs 400 for a day’s work. Attending the political meeting will not only let them earn more but they will also get good food and alcohol.”
The same situation prevails in Hyderabad as various ‘addas’ wear a deserted look making it difficult to find construction labour.
Campaign is in full swing in Warangal, Karimnagar and nearby towns and villages. Reports suggest that the candidates are ready with a second round of spending.
“Talks are on with leaders of various castes. They have been promised bikes and an amount of Rs 5 to Rs 10 lakhs towards the welfare of the community. This will happen in a few days from now. The final round of distribution of money to all potential voters will take place three or four days before the polling date. A huge amount will be spent depending on the deals struck with various groups,” said a trader from Warangal town who is working closely with a candidate.
In Nizamabad district, some candidates are using unique methods to bribe voters. According to locals, bank account numbers of women self help groups are being collected by candidates to transfer money.
In Khammam and Mahbubnagar districts, community feasts sponsored by candidates have already begun. Deals are being struck at these events to get closer to people. Recently, a candidate organised a function inside a temple on the eve of an auspicious day where “return gifts” were given away.
More than Rs 80 crore have been seized by the authorities in the last one month in the state which will go to polls on December 7.
