Introduction

Welcome to a journey through the world of election campaigning in the modern age, where words and actions come to play significant roles. As India's television news is filled with political stunts and promises, politicians often resort to unconventional methods to gain public favor. This article will explore some of the cheap stunts and tactics used by politicians, both to win elections and to change public perception.

Cheap Stunts and Tactful Stances

Every election campaign is brimming with efforts to outdo each other in the realm of public relations. Politicians, aware of their one and only responsibility securing their electionrsquo;s victory are prepared to do and say anything to reach their goal. Whether it is kissing babies, making unrealistic promises, or engaging in controversial public displays, the list of cheap tactics is vast.

Common Political Stunts

Here are a few of these common stunts:

Impossible Promises: Politicians often make unrealistic promises, promising to transform a city into a Utopia overnight. These promises, while appealing to the public, are often pledges they cannot keep. Mudslinging and Cheap Jokes: Attack advertisements and dirt-laden jokes are often used to tarnish the opposition's reputation. These tactics, though costly in their impact, are often seen as essential for winning over the voters. Illegally Collected Party Funds: Some political parties engage in unethical fund-raising methods, hiding their financial transactions from the public eye. This not only risks their integrity but also their legitimacy. Distribution of Substances during Elections: Distributing liquor and food to voters is a common tactic to influence the election outcome. While illegal, it remains an oft-used method. Distribution of Cash to Buy Votes: Perhaps the most blatant of these tactics, politicians sometimes offer cash to willing voters. This is not only illegal but also corrupting to the democratic process.

Public Perception and Criticism

Although such stunts may win short-term favor, the public backlash can be severe. Political figures often face criticism for their actions, and when they criticize opponents for similar behavior, it garners less public goodwill.

A Vindication of Ethical Standards

Take the case of Rahul Gandhi from the Congress party. Recently, he showcased his humane side by assisting a journalist who fell ill on the road. This compassionate act went viral, showcasing a different side to political campaigning.

Example: Rajinder Vyas Incident

While reaching a convention for a scheduled address at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Gandhi noticed a journalist, Rajinder Vyas, lying unconscious due to an accident. He promptly got out of his vehicle, took the journalist to the nearby AIIMS hospital, and arranged for his treatment. This incident was captured on video and shared widely on social media, painting a favorable picture of his leadership and empathy.

Conclusion

The election campaigning landscape is complex and multifaceted, with politicians relying heavily on a variety of stunts and tactics. While some of these methods achieve short-term gains, they often lead to long-term damage to the political and democratic fabric. Public scrutiny and awareness are crucial in ensuring that elections are conducted transparently and ethically.

Elected representatives have one job to get elected. However, as citizens, we have the responsibility to demand more than mere stunts and to encourage transparency and honesty in our political leaders.