Jammu and Kashmir elections 2024: 37 candidates in second phase declare serious criminal cases against themselves – News from India

According to a report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a total of 49 out of 238 candidates contesting in the second phase of elections in Jammu and Kashmir have filed criminal cases against themselves and 37 have filed serious criminal cases against themselves, representing 21% and 16% respectively.

The elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in three phases: September 18, September 25 and October 1, 2024. The counting of votes will take place on October 8.

Jammu & Kashmir Election Watch and ADR have analysed the affidavits of 238 of the 239 candidates contesting in Phase II of the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections. One independent candidate, namely Sarjan Ahmad Wagay, contesting from Beerwah constituency, was not analysed as his complete affidavit was not available.

Three candidates have reported cases of attempt to murder (IPC Section 307) and seven candidates have reported cases related to crimes against women. Out of seven candidates, one candidate has reported cases related to rape (IPC Section 376).

Among the major parties, four (15%) of 26 JKPDP candidates analysed, four (24%) of 17 BJP candidates analysed, two (33%) of six Congress candidates analysed and one (5%) of 20 JKNC candidates analysed have initiated criminal proceedings against themselves.
their affidavits, the ADR report states.

Among the major parties, one (4%) of 26 JKPDP candidates analysed, three (18%) of 17 BJP candidates analysed, two (33%) of six Congress candidates analysed and one (5%) of 20 JKNC candidates analysed have declared serious criminal cases against themselves in their affidavits.

Eight (31%) of 26 constituencies are considered red alert constituencies. In these constituencies, three or more candidates have initiated criminal proceedings against themselves.

In its report, ADR's report said, “The Supreme Court's directions had no impact on the selection of candidates by political parties for Phase II of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections as they reverted to their old practice of giving their tickets to about 21% of candidates with criminal records. All major parties contesting Phase II of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections gave their tickets to between 5% and 33% of candidates who had criminal records.”

“The Supreme Court, in its directions dated February 13, 2020, has specifically directed political parties to provide reasons for such selection and explain why other persons without criminal antecedents cannot be selected as candidates. As per these mandatory guidelines, the reasons for such selection must be based on qualifications, achievements and merit of the candidate concerned,” it said.

It continued: “These data clearly show that political parties have no interest in reforming the electoral system and that our democracy will continue to suffer from lawbreakers entering parliament.”