Kerala Assembly Analysis: High Criminal Cases and Wealth Among Incumbent MLAs
A comprehensive background analysis of Kerala's incumbent Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) has revealed startling statistics regarding criminal cases and financial wealth. The study, conducted by two prominent non-governmental organizations—Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Kerala Election Watch—examined affidavits submitted by candidates prior to the 2021 assembly elections and subsequent byelections.
Widespread Criminal Cases Among Legislators
The analysis focused on 132 out of the 140 MLAs in the current assembly, where three seats remain vacant. According to the report, a significant 70% of these incumbent MLAs have self-declared criminal cases against them. This translates to 92 MLAs out of the 132 analyzed who have acknowledged pending legal issues.
Among these, 33 MLAs are facing serious criminal charges. The report highlights specific grave offenses: two incumbent MLAs have declared cases related to murder under IPC Section 302, while three have declared cases related to attempt to murder under IPC Section 307.
Furthermore, the analysis identified cases concerning crimes against women. Three MLAs have declared cases in this category, with one specifically declaring a case related to rape under IPC Section 376. The report cautions that the number of criminal cases pending against some MLAs might have changed since the affidavits were submitted.
Educational and Demographic Profile of MLAs
The study also delved into the educational qualifications and age distribution of the MLAs. In terms of education, 48 MLAs declared their qualifications to be between Class V and Class XII, indicating a basic to intermediate level of schooling. A majority, 81 MLAs, are graduates or hold higher degrees, showcasing a relatively educated legislative body. Additionally, three MLAs are diploma holders.
Regarding age, 40 MLAs fall within the 25-50 years bracket, while a larger group of 92 MLAs are aged 51-80 years. The assembly includes 11 women MLAs, reflecting gender representation in the state's politics.
Financial Status: Majority Are Crorepatis
An examination of the financial backgrounds of the MLAs reveals substantial wealth among the legislators. The report states that 72 MLAs, accounting for 55% of those analyzed, are crorepatis—individuals with assets valued at over one crore rupees. The total combined assets of the 132 MLAs amount to an impressive Rs 363.78 crore.
Breaking down the crorepati MLAs by party affiliation, the analysis found one each from Kerala Congress (B), Kerala Congress (Jacob), Loktantrik Janta Dal, Indian National League, and National Secular Conference who have declared assets valued at more than Rs 1 crore. This indicates a cross-party trend of significant financial holdings among elected representatives.
Political Context and Implications
This analysis comes at a crucial time as political parties in Kerala, including the major fronts LDF and UDF, are announcing candidates for various seats. Both fronts have indicated plans to retain their incumbent MLAs as contestants, despite the findings of this report. The high percentage of MLAs with criminal cases and substantial assets raises important questions about the quality of representation and governance in the state.
The data underscores ongoing concerns about the criminalization of politics and the influence of wealth in electoral processes. As Kerala prepares for future elections, these insights could impact voter awareness and political discourse, potentially urging greater scrutiny of candidate backgrounds and accountability measures.
