Expressing concern over "rampant" use of money in polls, Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), an election watchdog, today appealed the candidates in fray for the forthcoming Assembly elections to abstain from using unaccounted cash.

"We appeal to all candidates and political parties of Punjab to completely shun the abuse of power and black money for funding their electoral campaigns," ADR founding member Jagdeep Chhokar told reporters here today.

Describing the use of black money as threat to democracy, Chhokar said power of money has overtaken muscle power.

A report released by the association showed that during 2007 Assembly elections in Punjab, poll expenses were 50 per cent of the ceiling fixed by the Election Commission.

"It is difficult to comprehend that on one hand politicians demand increase in limit for poll expenses and on the other side, they just spend 50 per cent of the total limit," Chhokar added.