"Polls Have Become Tamashas"

The hawala scam has focused attention on the flaws in the electoral system. What needs to be done?

I would like representatives of all parties to meet the Election Commission for discussions on cleansing the system. This should be done immediately, before the forthcoming elections. We are already in the election mode. A quick change in law is not likely, but I hope the 11th Parliament—11 is an auspicious number, after all—will, in its first year, pass a comprehensive electoral reforms bill. We recognise that in a democracy a candidate must be in touch with the people. The mechanics are obvious—he has to have transport, telephones, a house and the wherewithal to offer hospitality. At the same time, I oppose the view that men of substance should go into politics. India must be represented by men of no means. How do these people come up? Reforms should ensure that there's no advantage to the rich.

What are your views on state funding of elections?

It's definitely a solution. Since elections are held once every five years, the estimate of Rs 300-400 crore seems reasonable. Funds should be set aside in the budget. Perhaps a special cess can be levied. The EC could fund polls through this corpus. Our radio and TV resources must be fully utilised. Candidates should be given posters...all this is provided you shut off other channels of income. We are considering a demand to raise the ceiling from Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 12 lakh, but this must be binding. The inexpensive polls of the '50s and '60s have given way to tamashas. This has to be cut down. There should be no ticket-distribution melas. We should adopt the British model where candidates are interviewed and decided by a local committee.

Should corporate donations be banned?

Should the routine functioning of parties also be funded?

We should adopt the American system and give each MP an office and secretarial staff, depending on his needs.