Parties face test amid scrutiny of candidates with criminal backgrounds

Amid charges of corruption and crimes, parties face enduring dilemma as they select candidates for coming assembly polls

- ALOK MEHTA

The major political parties contesting the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections have been exchanging serious allegations regarding leaders with criminal backgrounds. As the final candidate selection process unfolds, including ticket distribution, confidential and public reports are being reviewed, making it a crucial "trial by fire" for all parties.

Currently, 49 per cent of Bihar's MLAs face serious criminal allegations. Out of 243 MLAs, nearly 160 have criminal cases registered against them, including 123 charged with serious crimes. Among these, 19 MLAs are accused of murder, and 31 face charges of attempted murder. These cases are still under judicial consideration.

In terms of criminal backgrounds, 54 out of 74 MLAs (73%) from Lalu Yadav's Rash triya Janata Dal (RJD) face cases, while 47 out of 73 MLAs (64%) from the BJP have criminal charges. The Janata Dal (United) (JDU) has 20 out of 43 MLAs (46%) with cases, and the Congress Party has 18 out of 19 MLAs (94%) with criminal records.

The key question remains: how many candidates get tickets de spite pending court hearings, driven by the lure of victory? Voters want to prioritize stringent action against crime and accelerated development over procedural issues like voter lists and voting machines.