The Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR Report) has shed light on the composition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third Cabinet, uncovering concerning revelations. Out of the 72-member council of ministers, a staggering 28 ministers are entangled in criminal cases. Among them, 19 face serious charges, including attempted murder, crimes against women, and hate speech.
Among the ministers facing the most severe allegations are Shantanu Thakur, the Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, and Sukanta Majumdar, the Minister of State for Education and the Development of the North Eastern Region. Both have declared cases related to attempted murder under section 307 of the Indian Penal Code.
The report highlights another disturbing statistic: five ministers have pending cases related to crimes against women. They include Minister of State (MoS) for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Thakur, Majumdar, MoS for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi, and Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram.
Additionally, the ADR report identifies eight ministers with cases related to hate speech. Overall, 39% of the total ministers have declared criminal cases.
In addition to criminal allegations, the ADR report also delves into the financial status of the ministers. It reveals that a staggering 99% of the new ministers are crorepatis, with an average asset value of Rs 107.94 crores among them. Notably, six ministers boast assets exceeding Rs 100 crores each.
Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State in the Ministry of Rural Development and Minister of State in the Ministry of Communications, tops the list with a total asset declaration of Rs 5705.47 crores, including Rs 5598.65 crores in movable assets and Rs 106.82 crores in immovable assets.
The ADR report underscores the need for transparency and accountability within the government, as the new Council of Ministers grapples with these concerning revelations.