*New Delhi, Dec 2:* A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals significant financial shifts in regional parties during the fiscal years 2020-21 and 2021-22. According to the report, 44 regional parties declared total assets of Rs 2,249.25 crore in FY 2020-21, increasing to Rs 3,000.62 crore in FY 2021-22.
The top 10 regional parties saw their assets rise by 48.48%, reaching Rs 2,909.186 crore in FY 2021-22. Samajwadi Party, BRS, and DMK were among those showing notable increases. However, AIADMK and TDP reported a decrease of 1.55% and 3.04%, respectively.
The total liabilities declared by 44 regional parties were Rs 54.06 crore in FY 2020-21, rising to Rs 74.18 crore in FY 2021-22. TDP had the highest liabilities at Rs 42.58 crore, up by 57.18%. BJD and AAP showed substantial increases in liabilities, while JD(S) and AJSU Party reported a decrease.
In terms of Capital or Reserve Funds, regional parties set aside Rs 2,195.19 crore in FY 2020-21 and Rs 2,926.43 crore in FY 2021-22. Samajwadi Party declared the highest capital of Rs 568.03 crore, followed by BRS and BJD. Audit reports for several parties were unavailable or delayed, with the ADR noting non-compliance with ICAI guidelines.
The guidelines, aimed at enhancing financial transparency, have not been uniformly adopted by political parties. The report underscores the need for greater adherence to financial disclosure norms, including details on loans, fixed assets, and donations, to enhance accountability and transparency in regional party finances.
