The Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala is banking on its party cadre for funds as it plans to make the electoral bonds issue a major campaign plank. The LDF, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), aims to raise funds from party workers to counter the ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Electoral bonds are a controversial banking instrument introduced by the central government in 2018 to facilitate the funding of political parties. The bonds, which can be purchased by individuals or companies, can then be donated to political parties without disclosing the donor’s identity. This lack of transparency has been a major point of contention, with critics arguing that it allows for black money to enter the political system.

The LDF’s decision to focus on the issue of electoral bonds comes as the state gears up for assembly elections. With the ruling UDF and the opposition BJP also targeting the issue, electoral funding is set to become a key campaign theme.

The LDF, which has traditionally relied on grassroots funding, has a wide network of party workers in Kerala. By mobilizing this cadre, the LDF hopes to generate significant funds to finance its election campaign.

In addition to electoral bonds, the LDF has also emphasized its commitment to maintaining financial transparency. The party has called for the declaration of election expenses of candidates and strict adherence to the code of conduct.

While the LDF’s focus on electoral bonds is seen as a strategy to counter the UDF and BJP, it remains to be seen how effective this campaign plank will be. The issue of electoral funding has been a contentious one, with widespread calls for greater transparency and accountability in the political process. Whether the LDF’s stance resonates with voters and translates into electoral success will only become clear when the election results are announced.