In what ways do shadow campaigns influence the fairness of elections in India?

Shadow campaigns refer to hidden or unofficial electioneering activities that operate outside the purview of formal regulations set by the Election Commission of India. These campaigns often use indirect means such as surrogate advertising, social media manipulation, or unreported funding to influence voters. Their existence raises significant concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.

• Violation of Spending Limits: Shadow campaigns allow candidates and parties to spend beyond the prescribed expenditure limits, making it difficult for authorities to monitor and ensure a level playing field.
• Lack of Transparency: Funds used in shadow campaigns are often unaccounted for, leading to the use of black money and making it hard for citizens to know who is backing which candidate or party.
• Unregulated Content: These campaigns frequently use social media platforms to spread misinformation, fake news, or targeted propaganda, which can mislead voters and distort public opinion.
• Surrogate Advertising: Political messages are sometimes disguised as news or entertainment content, bypassing regulations on political advertisements and misleading the electorate.
• Unequal Access: Wealthier candidates or parties are better able to fund shadow campaigns, undermining the principle of equal opportunity among contestants.
• Weakening of Accountability: Since these activities are not officially declared, it becomes difficult to hold candidates or parties accountable for violations of the Model Code of Conduct or electoral laws.