72% candidates face criminal cases in Bengal second phase, 63 seats marked ‘red alert’

A concerning assessment ahead of the second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections has revealed a high level of criminalisation among candidates. According to a joint report released by West Bengal Election Watch and ADR at the Kolkata Press Club, 63 constituencies have been categorised under the ‘red alert’ zone due to the presence of at least three candidates with declared criminal cases in each seat. The findings raise serious concerns over electoral integrity and voter safety.

The report further states that out of 142 constituencies going to polls in this phase, around 72 percent of candidates, amounting to 102 individuals, have criminal cases registered against them. These cases reportedly include serious charges such as murder, assault, and offences related to violence against women. The scale of such cases highlights the deep penetration of criminal allegations in electoral contests across the state.

Among constituencies, Bhangar has emerged as one of the most sensitive areas, with 8 out of 19 candidates facing pending legal proceedings. Other constituencies such as Entally and Howrah Central also reflect high candidate density, with 15 candidates each, further complicating electoral management and increasing scrutiny for election authorities. The clustering of cases has intensified concerns over law and order during polling.

Party-wise analysis suggests that the issue cuts across political lines. The data indicates that Bharatiya Janata Party candidates have the highest number of criminal cases in this phase, while approximately 35 percent of Trinamool Congress candidates and over half of Left Front candidates have either pending or unclear legal records. Around 25 percent of Congress candidates are also facing legal proceedings, indicating widespread prevalence across parties.

Civil society organisations have urged the Election Commission to take immediate steps to enhance transparency for voters. They have recommended that summaries of candidate affidavits be displayed prominently outside polling booths so that voters can make informed choices. Experts and observers emphasise that informed voting is essential to strengthening democratic values and ensuring accountability in electoral politics.