AAP’s donate-through-mobile drive faces hurdles
More than a month ago, the party signed a contract with the mobile company Airtel. AAP then said people can use a service called Airtel Money and transfer funds to the party.
The Aam Aadmi Party’s ‘donate-through-cellphone’ campaign has failed to take off.
More than a month ago, the party signed a contract with the mobile company Airtel. AAP then said people can use a service called Airtel Money and transfer funds to the party.
“We launched the campaign on a trial basis. But because of some glitches, very few donations have been made so far. We’re working to resolve the issues. We’re hopeful to start the campaign by next week,” said a senior party functionary.
In case of online donations, donors get receipts through e-mails. In case of cheques, the party posts receipts to donors. So donations made through banking channels allow donors to avail income tax rebate.
“But the income tax department doesn't acknowledge, for tax exemption, the SMSs that one gets after making donations through a cell phone. This is because cellular companies do not have banking licences. We’re trying to find a solution,” he said.
He attributed only a few donations to the fact that the mobile donation campaign was still in experimental stages and the party had deliberately not publicised it.
AAP wanted to start the service even before the Delhi assembly elections but it did not take off because of some issues.
“All you need to do is load your account, then enter a code to see a list of organisations you can donate money to. Select AAP, enter the amount and a pin. Enter your name, city and mobile number. Confirm that you are an Indian citizen and your donation will be made. You will receive a receipt,” he said.
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