ADR Report: 21% of Lawmakers in India Have Dynastic Backgrounds

Nearly 21 per cent (1,107) of the 5,204 sitting MPs, MLAs, and MLCs in India have dynastic political backgrounds, according to an analysis released by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) on 12 September 2025.

Highest Representation in Lok Sabha

Dynastic presence is highest in the Lok Sabha at 31%, while Assemblies record the lowest at 20%. In the Rajya Sabha, it stands at 21%, and in state Legislative Councils, at 22%.

National Parties: Congress Tops, BJP Lower

Among 3,214 lawmakers from national parties analyzed, 657 (20%) belong to political families.

• Congress leads with 32% dynastic representation.
• BJP follows with 18%.
• CPI (M) has the lowest share at just 8%.

State Parties: Strong Dynastic Tendencies

Of 1,809 lawmakers from state parties studied, 406 (22%) have dynastic links.

• NCP (SP) and J&K National Conference top the list with 42% each.
• YSR Congress Party (38%), Telugu Desam Party (36%), and NCP (34%) also show strong dynastic tendencies.

States: Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra Lead

• Uttar Pradesh: 141 out of 604 lawmakers (23%) have dynastic backgrounds.
• Maharashtra: 129 out of 403 lawmakers (32%) come from political families.