The Criminalization of Politics is the infiltration of criminals into the country's political system. Criminals can contest elections and even become Members of Parliament and Members of the Legislative Assembly.
For any country to prosper, it should be free of corruption. A country can never develop if the people ruling the country themselves are criminals.
India is the largest living democracy and one of the largest economies in the world. However, the Criminalization of Politics is a major threat to India and its future. Cleansing the government of this issue is critical for us to prosper. We need people with high morals to govern us.
Criminalization of Politics Causes
One of the prime reasons for the Criminalization of Politics is the increased relationship between politics and bureaucracy. Increased interference of politicians in the functioning of government departments is resulting in poor governance. It can be visibly noticed, especially during elections. Political parties often use their muscle and money power to influence voters to win elections.
Lack of transparency about political candidates' backgrounds also leaves the voters with little choice to choose candidates based on merit. Due to a lack of empowerment in such critical aspects, voters tend to vote through this limited strait of thought. This increases the possibility of a comprised candidate winning the elections who can encourage corruption.
Effects of Criminalization of Politics on a Country
The Criminalization of Politics is a major threat to a country. It can lead to the leaders not making decisions keeping the welfare of people in mind. The Criminalization of Politics can result in the criminals using power to amass wealth.
If not controlled, crime gets validated in society, threatening law and order. Candidates will opt for violent measures like abduction, booth capturing, etc., to win elections. This presents a culture of violence and epitomizes youth in the wrong way.
The Criminalization of Politics compromises righteousness and causes uncertainties in society. Illegal funds will pour into the electoral loop and can steer the election result on a dangerous path.
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Prevention of the Criminalization of Politics
The media should play a more active and conscious role in reporting the facts about criminals involved in the Criminalization of Politics. Our judiciary should play a more vibrant role in improving the present situation.
Civil societies and NGOs should also play a vital role in educating the voters on maintaining a free and fair political system. The Criminalization of Politics can be solved by introducing legislative changes.
Strict and effective laws must be formulated against the Criminalization of Politics for the larger good of our country.
The Criminalization of Politics needs to be checked on all fronts as it can rot the roots of democracy. Our judiciary is taking the necessary steps to cope with its increasing impact.
Concerted efforts are on to fight corruption effectively. Cleansing politics from criminal elements begins with purifying the political parties themselves. The parliament must take effective steps to curb this menace.
FAQs on Criminalization of Politics
Q.1. What is the Criminalization of Politics?
The Criminalization of Politics indicates that people with a criminal background become politicians and elected representatives.
Q.2. Is there a law to stop people with criminal records from contesting elections and spreading the Criminalization of Politics?
No law in India prevents people with criminal records from contesting the elections and spreading the Criminalization of Politics.
Q.3. Which committee is related to the Criminalisation of politics?
The Vohra (Committee) Report was submitted by the former Indian Home Secretary, N. N. Vohra, in October 1993.
Q.4. Who has the power to decide an election petition on the Criminalization of Politics?
High Court has the power to decide an election petition on the Criminalization of Politics.
Q.5. Which committee was set up to identify the extent of the Criminalization of Politics in India?
The Vohra Committee was set up to study the extent of the Criminalization of Politics in India