A significant number of candidates, specifically 348 out of the total 1283 contenders in Odisha are facing criminal charges. A recent joint report by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)  and Odisha Election Watch  has brought  to light a concerning revelation regarding the ongoing assembly election in the state.

Among the major political parties  in the state, the BJP  emerges with the highest  count of candidates entangled in various criminal cases. The report indicates that a substantial 68  percent  of BJP's candidates, amounting  to 100 out of 147  have criminal charges against them. It is stated that 58  percent of BJP candidates are accused of serious offenses such as kidnapping, assault , rape , murder  and other offenses carrying a maximum  punishment of five years or more . 

Similarly , the report highlights that 41 percent of Congress candidates  which  equates to 60 out of 145  have declared criminal cases against them. In contrast, the ruling BJD  has fielded 46 candidates comprising 31 percent of their total 147 candidates, who are facing criminal charges.