Guwahati: A recent report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) highlights clear trends among the 126 newly elected MLAs in Assam following the 2026 assembly elections. It shows that only 17% (21 legislators) have declared criminal cases, marking a significant drop from 27% (34 MLAs) in 2021. Similarly, the number of MLAs facing serious charges has decreased to 15% (19 legislators), compared to 22% five years earlier.
In the BJP’s 82 seats, only seven winners (9%) have declared criminal cases. The Congress shows a higher proportion, with nine out of 19 MLAs (47%) facing such cases. The AIUDF has two MLAs with cases, while the Trinamool Congress has one. In contrast, the Bodoland People’s Front stands out for its clean record, with all 10 of its MLAs free from any criminal charges.
And both AIUDF winners, Trinamool’s sole victor, one Raijor Dal MLA, and one from Asom Gana Parishad. Key worries include three attempt-to-murder cases and two linked to crimes against women.
The financial profile of legislators, however, shows a sharp rise. As many as 85% (107 MLAs) are crorepatis, a significant jump from 67% in 2021. Their combined assets amount to Rs1,112 crore, with the average wealth per MLA reaching Rs8.82 crore nearly double the earlier figure of Rs4.59 crore.
The BJP leads in the number of crorepati legislators, with 90% of its winners falling into this category, followed by the Bodoland People’s Front at 80% and the Congress at 74%. All MLAs from the AIUDF, Trinamool Congress, and Raijor Dal have declared assets exceeding ?1 crore.
In terms of average wealth, AIUDF tops the list with Rs117.77 crore, followed by the Bodoland People’s Front at Rs9.92 crore, BJP at Rs7.50 crore, Congress at Rs6.51 crore, Asom Gana Parishad at Rs2.81 crore, and Raijor Dal at Rs1.54 crore.
Among individuals, AIUDF leader Mohammed Badruddin Ajmal is the wealthiest, with assets exceeding Rs226 crore. He is followed by Bodoland People’s Front’s Sewli Mohilary with ?63 crore, and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma with Rs35 crore.
Based on sworn affidavits, the ADR report highlights the evolving socio-economic profile of Assam’s legislators amid closely contested elections