Criminalization of Politics: A Threat to India’s Policy-Making Process

As the largest democracy in the world, India has been grappling with a recurring and complex problem: the widespread menace of Criminalization of Politics. This complex issue not only undermines democratic principles but also harms the difficult process of developing and enacting public policy. A long shadow has been cast over the course of the country’s progress due to the predominance of individuals with criminal backgrounds dominating politics.

‘Criminalization’ of Politics:

In India, the term “criminalization of politics” refers to the rise in the number of people with criminal histories participating in politics. According to the ADR report, 306 out of the 763 sitting MPs that were examined (about 40%) had filed criminal complaints against themselves. The ADR analysis encompassed that out of 4033 MLA’s serving in India, 1136 MLA’s are having criminal record. Several factors have contributed to the growth of the relationship between politics and crime, including the relationship between politicians and organized crime, the use of coercion during elections, and the abuse of legal loopholes.

The Spectre of Threats

A culture of intimidation and repression is the direct consequence of the involvement of criminal groups in politics. Policies are created to defend the interests of criminal networks, which maintains an environment of fear in the minds of the common masses, eventually undermining opposition and causing institutions to fail. A minister in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh threatened to “electrically shock” voters if they pressed any button on the electronic voting machines (EVMs) in their polling places other than those designated for the candidate for his political party. This example highlights the extent of the use of force and fear in the democratic process of elections.

Breach of Rule of Law:

Since individuals in charge of creating and upholding laws may also be lawbreakers, the criminalization of politics threatens the integrity of the legal system. On June 25, 1975, the then Prime Minister of India announced a state of emergency, citing domestic unrest and dangers to national security. Up until March 21, 1977, this state of emergency persisted. In Indian history, the declaration of the ‘state of emergency’ was a contentious and major event that sparked serious questions about democratic values and the rule of law. Throughout the emergency, a large number of opposition individuals, activists, and political leaders were detained. The detention of opposition leaders aroused concerns concerning the government’s motives and dedication to democratic values.