<h5>What was the Supreme Court’s decision?</h5><p>The Supreme Court (SC) was requested to consider imposing a life ban from contesting elections on lawmakers who committed certain crimes. Currently, they can be banned for six years. This was part of a plea that the SC recently decided on. The court did not decide on the lifelong ban and said it would be considered later.</p><p>However, the SC issued directives on speeding up the resolution of criminal charges against the Members of Parliament (MP) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs).</p><p>A bench including the Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has asked the High Court (HC) chief justices to form special benches to monitor such cases. Furthermore, the HCs may request help from other lawyers. The SC also said that cases related to MPs and MLAs that are punishable by death should be given preference over others.</p><p>Delays in court proceedings allow the MPs and MLAs to finish their terms before they face any charges. If charges against them are proven true, the MPS and MLAs can be disqualified and face a lengthy ban.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/newsahoot.appspot.com/o/supreme-court-rules-on-criminal-proceedings-againt-politicians%2FBench.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=4fa24f50-63d4-4d34-a634-f13dbcdfed60"><figcaption>The bench that gave the decision. Photo by Bar &amp; Bench</figcaption></figure><h5>What percentage of MPs and MLAs have criminal cases against them?</h5><p>A study shows that over 44% of MLAs in state assemblies across India have declared criminal cases against them. The study also finds that 28% of the MLAs have declared serious criminal proceedings against them, including charges of murder, attempted murder, etc.</p><p>Another study finds that 40% of serving MPs have declared criminal charges against them. 25% have declared serious criminal charges against them, such as murder, kidnapping, etc.</p><h5>Why do political parties pick people with criminal cases for elections?</h5><p>Some people with criminal records may have a huge local following or monetary power. Sometimes, these candidates are given party tickets as political parties prioritise winning elections over the candidates' criminal records. Candidates with criminal records can also have the power to control or scare opponent party members in certain areas.</p><p>Candidates with criminal records may also have strong links with local communities in some areas. So, parties can consider them the best option for securing votes during elections. Political parties fielding candidates with criminal records are a major source of concern for the country. People can lose trust in such political parties.</p><p>Some might think such candidates will engage in illegal activities and not care for the public and social development. However, it should also be noted that not all MPs and MLAs have criminal cases against them. Many are honest and want to help the country’s citizens and society.</p>

Many MPs and MLAs have criminal cases against them.

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