The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has expressed deep concern over the growing criminalization and dynastic control of Indian politics, warning that this trend undermines justice, accountability, and democracy.
According to the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), 43% of MPs in the Lok Sabha (233 out of 543) and 44% of MLAs (1,777 out of 4,091) have declared criminal cases against themselves. Even more troubling, 29% of MPs (159) and 28% of MLAs (1,136) face serious criminal charges such as murder, attempt to murder, rape, kidnapping, and crimes against women.
Alongside criminalization, dynastic politics continues to dominate India’s political system. Out of 5,204 legislators across the country, 1,107 (21%) come from political families. In the Lok Sabha, the share of dynastic members is as high as 31% (167 out of 543). States like Andhra Pradesh (34%), Maharashtra (32%), and Karnataka (29%) have the highest dynastic penetration, while Uttar Pradesh has the largest absolute number with 141 dynastic legislators.
Speaking on the issue, Satnam Singh Chahal, Executive Director of NAPA, said:
“How can justice be delivered when lawmakers themselves face criminal charges or owe their positions to family legacy rather than public service? Nearly half of India’s legislators are tainted by crime, and one in five is dynastic. This is a crisis of democracy and accountability.”
NAPA has called for urgent reforms, including:
Fast-track courts to decide criminal cases against politicians within six months to one year.
Immediate disqualification of candidates facing serious criminal charges after charges are framed by a court.
Internal democracy in political parties to break dynastic monopolies and ensure fair ticket distribution.
Chahal stressed that without decisive action, India’s democracy risks being hollowed out by vested interests. He added:
“India’s people deserve justice, fairness, and leadership rooted in integrity. Until criminalization and dynastic politics are addressed, citizens will continue to suffer under compromised governance.”