The Business of Politics: Capitalist Forces in India’s Electoral Processes
Author : Dr. Aftabuddin Ahammad
Abstract :
The intersection of capitalism and politics in India has transformed the electoral landscape, embedding market-driven imperatives into democratic processes. This study explores the growing influence of capitalist forces on India's elections, examining the role of corporate funding, media ownership and digital campaigning. It argues that electoral campaigns increasingly reflect consumerist patterns, with candidates and parties marketed as products. The infusion of money power has skewed political competition, creating disparities in representation and policy influence. This phenomenon challenges the principles of equality and inclusivity central to democracy. Furthermore, the paper investigates the regulatory loopholes that allow unchecked corporate intervention, highlighting the implications for transparency and accountability. By scrutinizing these dynamics, the study seeks to unravel how capitalism redefines political priorities, governance and the citizen-state relationship in India’s electoral processes.
Keywords :
Capitalism, electoral processes, corporate funding, media ownership, digital campaigning, democracy, political representation, transparency, accountability.
