Alarming Criminal Backgrounds Found Among Candidates in State Assembly Elections

A recent report by the National Election Watch and Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed disturbing findings about candidates in the state assembly elections in Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana. Out of 8,051 candidates analyzed, a shocking 1,452 have criminal cases registered against them, with 959 facing serious charges.

The study also highlighted that the accused had carried out a staggering 3,000 abortions, targeting financial gains with fees ranging between Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 per termination. The report disclosed that 22 candidates across the states have cases related to murder, 82 for attempted murder, and 107 for crimes against women, including five with charges related to rape.

Despite Supreme Court directives, political parties have continued the practice of fielding candidates with criminal backgrounds, raising concerns about electoral ethics and public safety.