A recent study conducted by the Association of Democratic Reforms has revealed some concerning statistics about the current Lok Sabha MPs. Out of the 514 MPs analyzed, 44% of them, which amounts to 225 individuals, have self-declared criminal cases against them. Additionally, it was discovered that 5% of these MPs are billionaires with assets exceeding Rs. 100 crore.
The study, which comes just weeks before the general election, is based on self-sworn affidavits provided by the MPs. In a separate report, the ADR also disclosed that the incumbent Lok Sabha passed a total of 222 bills.
The report further delves into the nature of the criminal cases faced by the sitting MPs. It reveals that 29% of them are facing serious charges, including murder, attempted murder, promoting communal disharmony, kidnapping, and crimes against women. Shockingly, nine representatives face murder charges, with five of them belonging to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Moreover, 28 sitting MPs have declared cases of attempted murder, with 21 being affiliated with the BJP. Additionally, 16 MPs face charges related to crimes against women, including rape.
The ADR report also sheds light on the financial status of these lawmakers. It highlights that both the BJP and Congress have the highest number of billionaire MPs. However, there is significant representation from other parties as well. The top three MPs with the highest declared assets are Nakul Nath and DK Suresh from the Congress party, as well as Kanumuru Raghu Rama Krishna Raju, an Independent candidate. The study further emphasizes the disparities in wealth among MPs, with some possessing assets worth hundreds of crores, while others have minimal assets.
The report also analyzes the distribution of criminal cases among states. States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh have more than 50% of their MPs facing criminal charges.
In terms of educational qualifications, the report reveals that 73% of the MPs have graduate or higher educational qualifications. However, it is disheartening to note that only 15% of the sitting MPs are women.
In a separate report, the ADR has disclosed that the 17th Lok Sabha, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, passed an unprecedented 222 bills during its term. Notably, 45 of these bills were approved on the same day they were presented. The list of these legislations includes the Appropriation Bill, Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation (No.2) Bill, Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021, among others.
