Can you identify which of the challenges described in this section are being highlighted in these cartoons (on pages 57 to 59)? What are the ways to curb the misuse of money and muscle power in politics?

• The cartoon on the page 57 : One or few leaders exercise paramount power in the party, those who disagree with the leadership are generally not heard.
• The cartoon on the page 58 : It is about the growing role of money and muscle power in parties.
• The cartoon on the page 59 : It is also about growing role of money in parties. Parties tend to nominate those candidates who have or can raise lots of money.

Curbing the misuse of money and muscle power in politics is crucial for maintaining the integrity and fairness of democratic elections. Following are the ways to curb the misuse of money and muscle power in politics:

1. Enact and enforce stringent laws and regulations that govern political finance, including limits on campaign spending, transparent reporting of financial contributions and expenditures, and penalties for violations.
2. Strengthen monitoring mechanisms by the Election Commission or relevant authorities to oversee campaign finances, track expenditures, and ensure compliance with legal limits.
3. Promote transparency in political funding by requiring political parties and candidates to disclose their funding sources and expenditures regularly and publicly.