Just 12% candidates in phase 5 are women: ADR
The ongoing Lok Sabha election paints a stark picture of gender representation, with just about 12 per cent of the candidates in the fifth phase being female, according to a thorough analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a stalwart in advocating for electoral transparency.
ADR’s analysis also shines a light on the concerning prevalence of criminality among candidates, revealing that nearly 23 per cent have criminal cases against them, and approximately 18 per cent are entangled in serious criminal charges.
Out of the 695 candidates vying for seats in the fifth phase on May 20, a mere 82 are women, underscoring the persistent underrepresentation of women in electoral politics.
This disparity echoes that of the earlier phases, with only 8 per cent of female candidates in the first and second phases, 9 per cent in the third phase and 10 per cent in the fourth phase.
Of the 695 candidates under scrutiny in the fifth phase, 18 per cent (122 candidates) are grappling with serious criminal charges, ranging from murder to hate speech, with three candidates having past convictions.
To unravel the intricate tapestry of candidate backgrounds, ADR and the National Election Watch meticulously analysed self-sworn affidavits, illuminating not only criminal records but also financial standings, educational attainments and gender diversity.
A breakdown by party affiliation reveals a disconcerting trend, with a notable percentage of candidates from major parties carrying serious criminal charges against them.
The report unveils that 29 candidates have cases related to crimes against women, with one facing a charge of rape (IPC Section 376) and 10 entangled in cases related to hate speech.
Furthermore, a significant 33 per cent of candidates boast assets exceeding Rs 1 crore, with an average asset value per candidate of Rs 3.56 crore.
Among this 33 per cent, the top three candidates flaunt assets ranging from Rs 110 crore to 212 crore, underscoring the immense wealth concentrated in certain political circles.
However, prosperity doesn’t shield all from liabilities, with 47 per cent of candidates declaring debts, some of which soar into the tens of crores.
Educational qualifications present a mixed bag, with 42 per cent holding qualifications between the 5th and 12th standards, and only half being graduates or above.
Moreover, ADR’s report further shows that 26 candidates have diplomas, 20 are just literate and five are outright illiterate, raising pertinent questions about the educational standards of candidates seeking to represent the populace.
