A report from the Association for Democratic Reforms uncovers disturbing statistics
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – A comprehensive analysis conducted by the non-governmental organisation Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has revealed startling facts about the ethical and financial backgrounds of 695 candidates in the fifth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. A scrutinisation of affidavits filed by the candidates sheds light on criminal charges and substantial wealth among political hopefuls.
The ADR report released on Sunday said a significant proportion of candidates — 23 percent, or 159 individuals — have criminal charges lodged against them. The offenses range from serious criminal charges to felonies, encompassing cases of assault, murder, kidnapping, rape, and others under the Representation of the People Act and laws against corruption. Shockingly, the analysis further reveals that 18 percent of the candidates, numbering 122, have admitted to serious criminal charges.
Election watchdogs have highlighted specific cases, including candidates confessing to murder-related offenses, attempted murder, hate speech, and crimes against women. Notably, one candidate has admitted to the charge of rape in his affidavit, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The report also delves into the affiliation of candidates with major political parties. Among them, the Samajwadi Party, Shiv Sena, and All India Majlis Ittehad ul-Muslimeen have a notable presence of candidates with criminal cases against them. Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, and Trinamool Congress have registered instances of candidates facing criminal charges.
Furthermore, the analysis unveils the substantial wealth amassed by several candidates. Out of the 695 candidates, 33 percent, comprising 227 individuals, possess assets exceeding one crore rupees. The distribution of wealth among political parties varies with candidates from the Samajwadi Party, Shiv Sena, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and Nationalist Congress Party declaring significant assets.
The top three wealthiest candidates identified in the analysis include Anurag Sharma from the BJP, Nilesh Bhagwan Sambare, an independent candidate, and Union Minister Piyush Goyal. These candidates boast assets worth over Rs 100 crore, emphasising the considerable financial influence within the electoral landscape.
The findings of the ADR analysis underscore the critical need for transparency, integrity, and accountability in the electoral process. With a substantial number of candidates embroiled in criminal cases and amassing significant wealth, questions arise regarding the ethical standards and representation within India’s political sphere.
