A police official said that the term ‘bad character’, in police records, is used to identify individuals with a history of repeated involvement in criminal activities, such as theft, robbery, snatching, murder, and drug trafficking (File)No police station in Chandigarh is free from individuals tagged as ‘bad characters’, according to an updated list prepared by the Chandigarh Police. There are 275 ‘bad characters’, including nine women.A police official said that the term ‘bad character’, in police records, is used to identify individuals with a history of repeated involvement in criminal activities, such as theft, robbery, snatching, murder, and drug trafficking. These individuals may or may not have been convicted in a court of law, but are marked by police surveillance based on consistent criminal behaviour or suspicion.Maloya tops the listAmong all police jurisdictions in Chandigarh, the Maloya police station accounts for the highest number of bad characters — 45 individuals. It is followed by IT (Information Technology) Park area (31) and Sector 11 (21). These areas include several informal settlements and high-density zones where criminal activities are reported more frequently, contributing to the higher count of individuals under scrutiny.Significantly, it is Sector 3 area of the city where the police have identified only one ‘bad character’.Life under surveillance: Consequences of being a ‘bad character’Individuals designated as ‘bad characters’ face numerous challenges in their daily lives due to constant scrutiny and social consequences. They are kept under close surveillance by their respective local police stations, which affects their sense of freedom and privacy. This label hampers their ability to rent accommodation, obtain driving licences or passports, and clear police verifications required for government jobs. The social stigma attached to this status often leads to strained personal relationships and can severely impact marriage prospects. Legally, such individuals face complications in securing bail, particularly if they are repeat offenders or have pending cases. Additionally, having a police record often leads to visa rejections from several countries, limiting their international mobility and opportunities.Getting off the list: A path to reformPolice officials clarified that inclusion in the ‘bad character’ list is not permanent. If an individual refrains from criminal activity over an extended period and maintains positive conduct in society, their name can be removed. The Station House Officer (SHO) or Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) can recommend removal after preparing a satisfactory report, often in consultation with intelligence inputs.A senior police officer said that to curb the criminal and snatching incidents, a special search operation (CASO) has been carried out in the city, wherein special focus of police teams was to check suspicious persons, ‘bad characters’, history sheeters, those released from jail and to keep watch on persons involved in NDPS cases. The BC (bad characters) are being continuously kept under vigil.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:Chandigarh Police