Among the 514 incumbent Lok Sabha MPs scrutinized, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) has unearthed startling statistics. It reveals that a substantial 44 percent of these MPs have self-reported criminal cases against them in the affidavits they've sworn.
Delving deeper into the financial profiles, the analysis discloses that 5 percent of these MPs fall under the billionaire category, boasting assets surpassing Rs 100 crore.
The gravity of the situation amplifies when focusing on the nature of the criminal charges. Disturbingly, 29 percent of MPs with criminal cases face serious charges, spanning offenses such as murder, attempted murder, inciting communal discord, kidnapping, and crimes against women. Shockingly, nine of these MPs are entangled in murder cases, with five of them affiliated with the BJP.
The analysis also unveils the prevalence of attempted murder charges, with 28 MPs facing such accusations, the majority being from the BJP. Similarly, 16 sitting MPs confront charges related to crimes against women, including three instances of rape.
Turning attention to financial disparities among lawmakers, both the BJP and the Congress claim the lion's share of billionaire MPs, although other parties also make a notable showing.
Geographically, states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh emerge as hotspots with over 50 percent of their MPs embroiled in criminal cases.
The wealth spectrum among MPs is stark, with some boasting assets worth hundreds of crores while others possess modest holdings. Noteworthy mentions go to Nakul Nath (Congress), DK Suresh (Congress), and Kanumuru Raghu Rama Krishna Raju (Independent), ranking as the top three MPs with staggering declared assets.
Furthermore, the report sheds light on the educational backgrounds, age, and gender distribution among the MPs. A considerable 73 percent hold graduate or higher degrees, while a mere 15 percent are women, indicating a glaring gender disparity in parliamentary representation.
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