BJP's Funding Surge: A Look at Political Donations

The political landscape in India is witnessing a significant transformation, particularly in the realm of funding. In the 2024-25 Lok Sabha election year, the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) received an astonishing Rs 6,088 crore in donations. This figure is not just remarkable; it dwarfs the contributions made to the Congress party, which amounted to only Rs 522.12 crore. The stark contrast in these numbers highlights the growing financial dominance of the BJP in Indian politics.

One of the most notable changes this year is the impact of the Supreme Court's decision to scrap the electoral bonds scheme. Previously, this scheme allowed anonymous donations to political parties, but its removal has led to a shift towards more transparent funding mechanisms. In 2024-25, electoral trusts emerged as the preferred source for political donations, accounting for over 60% of the funds received by the BJP. This indicates a trend towards more accountable financial practices in political funding.

Major contributors to the BJP included prominent corporations such as the Serum Institute of India, which donated Rs 100 crore, followed by Rungta Sons Private Limited with Rs 95 crore, and Vedanta Limited with Rs 67 crore. This influx of funds from well-known companies suggests a strong alignment between corporate interests and the BJP, raising questions about the influence of money in politics.

In contrast, the Congress party's donations saw a significant decline, halving compared to previous years. The party still managed to receive support from electoral trusts, which comprised 60% of its total contributions. Noteworthy donors included ITC Infotech India Limited, Hindustan Zinc Limited, and senior party leader P Chidambaram, who personally donated Rs 3 crore. This downturn in funding for Congress highlights the shifting political dynamics in India.

The emergence of electoral trusts as a dominant funding source reflects a broader trend towards transparency in political financing. As companies seek to navigate the new landscape, they are now opting for electoral trusts, which allow for a clearer and more accountable distribution of funds to political parties. This change could have lasting implications for the future of political donations in India.

Overall, the evolving political funding landscape in India is crucial as it not only shapes party strategies but also influences the democratic process itself. As the next elections approach, the focus on financial transparency and accountability will be more critical than ever.