Wealth disparity in Gujarat Lok Sabha candidates

Gujarat: At the other end of the list is Bahujan Samaj Party’s Rekha Chaudhari, who is contesting the Bardoli (Scheduled Tribe) seat and has reported assets of just ₹ 2,000.

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has shed light on the significant wealth gap among Lok Sabha candidates in Gujarat, with Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Poonam Maadam emerging as the wealthiest contender.

Richest Candidate: Poonam Maadam

Poonam Maadam, BJP’s candidate from Jamnagar Lok Sabha constituency, leads the pack with declared assets amounting to ₹147 crore. 

Her assets have notably increased from ₹42.7 crore in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections to ₹147 crore in 2024, reflecting a substantial rise. These assets include both movable and immovable properties, including those owned individually, jointly with her spouse, and as part of the Hindu Undivided Family (HUF).

Least Wealthy Candidate: Rekha Chaudhari

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In contrast, Rekha Chaudhari, representing the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the Bardoli (Scheduled Tribe) seat, stands at the opposite end of the spectrum with declared assets of merely ₹2,000. 

This significant wealth disparity highlights the diversity among candidates in terms of financial resources.

Extent of Wealthy Candidates

Out of the 266 candidates vying for the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat, 68 candidates, constituting 26% of the total, are categorized as ‘crorepatis’ by ADR. This indicates a substantial presence of affluent candidates in the electoral fray.

Wealthy Union Ministers

Several Union ministers contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Gujarat also boast considerable assets. For instance, Parshottam Rupala has declared assets exceeding ₹17 crore, while Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya’s total assets surpass ₹7 crore.

Notable Wealth Declarations

Other noteworthy declarations include Gujarat BJP president CR Paatil, seeking re-election from Navsari, who has declared assets exceeding ₹39 crore. Mukesh Dalal, the BJP candidate who secured victory unopposed from Surat, possesses assets valued at more than ₹17 crore.

Conclusion

The disparity in wealth among Lok Sabha candidates in Gujarat, as revealed by ADR’s data, underscores the diverse financial backgrounds represented in the electoral process. 

While some candidates command substantial assets, others contend with minimal resources, reflecting the socioeconomic diversity within the political landscape of the state.