Contesting Candidates refers to the total number of individuals who formally filed nomination papers and appeared on the ballot to contest the Lok Sabha elections. This includes candidates from national parties, state parties, registered unrecognised parties, and independents who met the eligibility criteria laid down by the Election Commission of India. Closely linked to this is the indicator Deposit Forfeited, which represents the number of candidates who failed to secure at least one-sixth (16.67%) of the total valid votes in their constituency. As per electoral regulations, such candidates lose their security deposit—an institutional measure aimed at discouraging frivolous or non-serious contenders.

These indicators are vital in assessing both the openness and effectiveness of the electoral process. A rising number of contesting candidates may signal greater political engagement, democratisation, and citizen participation. However, it may also indicate electoral clutter, making it harder for voters to evaluate choices. The volume of deposit forfeitures, in contrast, helps gauge the seriousness and competitiveness of the candidates. A high forfeiture rate could point to symbolic participation, lack of voter connection, or proliferation of non-viable candidates. Together, these metrics help analysts and policymakers understand the depth of political competition, voter behaviour, and the operational health of electoral democracy in India.