19% candidates face grave charges in 2019 election

Nearly one in five candidates contesting the Lok Sabha polls is accused of heinous crimes including rape, murder and kidnapping, shows data from Association of Democratic Reforms. That's a steady increase from 15% in the 2009 elections and 19% in 2014. India bars convicts sentenced for two years or more from fighting elections, but those facing charges are allowed to contest polls. The data also shows that 29% of the candidates have a net worth of Rupees1 crore or more, up from 27% in 2014, but fewer than one in two hold a graduate degree.

Percentage of candidates with criminal record, contesting elections is increasing ( Source:Association for Democratic Reforms-ADR): 2019 Lok Sabha elections-19%, 2014 Lok Sabha elections-17%, 2009 Lok Sabha Elections-15%. 2014 Lok Sabha (the existing Lok Sabha), already, has about 35% MPs with criminal charges framed by courts. Trends indicate that this will go up further. Only the voters can help...

When corrupt and criminals who have severe charges like rape, murder etc. have been holding the crucial position as a lawmaker, It is not difficult to understand that why does India lack in women safety, and stands higher in corruption.  There were 521 MP's (Member of Parliament) winners in 2009, and 30 percent of these, that means 158 MP's faced criminal charges. The percentage of such MP's was 24 percent in 2004.