An analysis of 4,092 MLAs from 28 state and UT assemblies reveals that nearly 45% (1,861) face criminal cases, with 29% (1,205) accused of serious crimes like murder, attempt to murder, kidnapping, and crimes against women. Andhra Pradesh leads with 79% of MLAs having criminal cases, followed by Kerala and Telangana (69% each), Bihar (66%), Maharashtra (65%), and Tamil Nadu (59%). Andhra Pradesh also has the highest proportion of MLAs facing serious charges at 56%.
Criminal Allegations Among MLAs: Party-Wise Breakdown and Serious Charges
Party-wise, TDP has the highest percentage of MLAs with criminal cases at 86% (115 out of 134), including 61% facing serious allegations. Among BJP MLAs, 39% (638 out of 1,653) have criminal cases, with 26% facing serious charges. Congress has 52% (339 out of 646) MLAs with criminal records, including 194 facing serious allegations. Tamil Nadu’s DMK has 74% (98 out of 132) of its MLAs with criminal cases, including 42 facing serious charges. The AAP has 56% (69 out of 123) MLAs facing criminal cases, with 35 facing serious allegations.
The report identifies 54 MLAs accused of murder, 226 with attempt to murder charges, and 127 facing cases related to crimes against women, including 13 charged with rape.
Wealth Disparities and Criminal Backgrounds Among MLAs
The analysis also highlights financial disparities, revealing that 119 MLAs are billionaires. The average wealth of all MLAs is Rs 17.92 crore, while MLAs facing criminal charges have higher average assets of Rs 20.97 crore. The report underscores the concerning presence of criminal backgrounds among elected representatives and highlights the need for political reforms to improve electoral transparency and accountability.
