Thiruvananthapuram: Closing one’s eyes does not make it dark, and the same applies to election spending. The Election Commission has fixed a maximum spending limit of Rs 40 lakh per candidate for an Assembly constituency. However, any observer counting the flex boards stretching across just two kilometres in Kerala during the recent campaign would realise that every candidate has far exceeded this limit.

Yet, the accounts submitted to the Commission will invariably show a figure just a few pence shy of Rs 40 lakhs. The Commission, in turn, will look the other way and approve them. In this regard, candidates and parties must either exercise self-restraint by following the example set by Chandy Oommen, or the Commission must revise the limits to reflect reality.

The reality of election costs

This time, election spending is estimated to be 10 times the amount fixed by the Commission. Most front-line candidates are certain to have spent between Rs 3 and 3.5 crores. With a shorter campaign window, many were forced to pour in money to intensify their outreach. Candidates of the ruling front also benefited from government-funded PR work, effectively using public money for their promotion.

The breakdown of expenses is staggering.

Booth expenses: With an average of 225 booths per constituency, at least Rs 25,000 is spent per booth for operational costs.

Social media and PR: Up to Rs 25 lakh is paid to influencers and PR teams to sway public opinion.

Campaign materials: The cost of posters and flex boards has risen by 30% compared to previous elections.

Logistics: Around 30 to 35 vehicles must be constantly on the move within a constituency.

Labour: To avoid being caught giving cash directly, coupons are often used for workers. Furthermore, "hired" supporters are often paid a daily wage to participate in the campaign.

The Chandy Oommen model: Just Rs 20 lakhs

Amidst this expensive clamour, Chandy Oommen stood out by opting for a campaign of simplicity—no flex boards, no posters and no massive motorcades. He even took to a bicycle for campaigning, a move that marks a revolutionary shift in Kerala's recent political history.

Chandy Oommen estimates his total election expenditure to be no more than Rs 20 lakh. Any financial support offered by friends and well-wishers is directed entirely to the Oommen Chandy Foundation, which has already constructed houses for 48 families.

"Even if I lose a few votes because there is no luxury in my campaign, it doesn’t matter. I am willing to bear that," says Chandy Oommen.