Wealth and Crime: A Snapshot of BMC 2026 Poll Winners

The 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation polls revealed that nearly one in four winning candidates have criminal cases, while about 79% are crorepatis. The Association for Democratic Reforms' analysis highlighted a strong financial presence among winners, with an average asset of Rs 7.18 crore.

In a startling revelation, the 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls have underscored the significant intersection of wealth and criminality among elected representatives. A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that nearly 24% of the winning candidates have declared criminal cases against themselves.

The financial analysis offers no less shock, with approximately 79% of the winners identified as crorepatis. This data, derived from self-sworn affidavits by candidates, indicated an average net worth of Rs 7.18 crore among the elected representatives.

The gender and age demographics present an interesting aspect, with 60% of the corporators being women and 70% in the 41-70 age range. Additionally, half of these elected members boast graduate-level educational qualifications or higher, the ADR notes.

(With inputs from agencies.)