Why in news?
An analysis released in August 2025 showed that around 30 percent of Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) in India face serious criminal charges. The share of MPs with such cases has more than doubled since 2009.
What does criminalisation of politics mean?
Criminalisation of politics refers to individuals facing serious criminal charges—offences punishable by five or more years in prison or non‑bailable offences—contesting and winning elections to legislatures.
Current situation
- Parliament: In 2009 only 14 percent of MPs had serious criminal cases. By 2024 this proportion had risen to 31 percent. Telangana has the highest share of MPs with serious cases (71 percent), followed by Bihar (48 percent). Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of such MPs (34).
- State legislatures: In 2024 nearly 29 percent of MLAs—around 1,200 legislators—faced serious cases. Andhra Pradesh had the highest share (56 percent), followed by Telangana (50 percent). Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of such MLAs (154), making up 38 percent of its assembly.
Why is this a concern?
- Rule of law: Electing people accused of serious crimes undermines the credibility of the law‑making process and weakens trust in public institutions.
- Quality of governance: Legislators with criminal backgrounds may prioritise personal or group interests over public welfare and may influence policy decisions in favour of vested interests.
- Erosion of ethical standards: It normalises the acceptance of criminality in public life and discourages honest citizens from participating in politics.
Relevance to UPSC
- GS II (Polity and Governance): The issue highlights the need for electoral reforms and effective laws to cleanse politics.
- GS IV (Ethics and Integrity): It raises questions about probity, accountability and integrity in public life.
- Essay topics: Themes on democracy, ethics in politics and the quality of governance often appear in essay papers.
Possible remedies
- Legal reforms: Bar candidates facing serious charges from contesting elections until cleared by courts. Fast‑track courts can expedite verdicts in cases against elected representatives.
- Electoral finance reform: Reduce the cost of elections and increase transparency in funding to discourage candidates from seeking support from criminals.
- Voter awareness: Educate voters about the criminal records of candidates so that they can make informed choices.
- Political will: Encourage political parties to deny tickets to candidates with serious criminal allegations.
Conclusion: Criminalisation of politics threatens democracy and governance in India. Meaningful reforms, public awareness and political resolve are needed to restore faith in the electoral process and uphold ethical standards.