Shaleen Anand – Patna
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Indian democracy often prides itself on being the world’s largest, but it continues to wrestle with a paradox — the growing grip of political dynasties. According to recent national data, 21% of India’s sitting MPs, MLAs, and MLCs come from dynastic backgrounds. The concentration is even sharper in Parliament: 31% of Lok Sabha MPs are from political families, compared to 20% in state assemblies.
This means that one in every five elected representatives owes their political lineage not to grassroots struggle but to inherited privilege. The “nepo kids” of Indian politics — much like their counterparts in the film industry — inherit networks, name recognition, and ready-made voter trust. For first-generation politicians, this creates a battlefield that is far from level. Yet, history and recent trends show that the playing field, though uneven, is not unchangeable.
The Uneven Start Line
Dynastic politicians start their careers with built-in advantages: resources, media attention, and the machinery of a political brand. A surname can open doors that ordinary party workers spend years knocking on. When a young heir steps into politics, they often inherit not just the legacy but also the loyalty of an entire constituency.
In contrast, first-generation politicians must create everything from scratch — their image, their base, their identity. They need to fight on two fronts: first against rivals from other parties, and second against the invisible wall of nepotism within their own. It’s no wonder that, even after decades of democratic maturity, 1 in 5 lawmakers still trace their roots to political families.
The Power of Ground Politics
However, first-generation leaders have one decisive advantage — authentic connect with the ground. Unlike dynasty candidates, who often parachute into safe constituencies, grassroots politicians build from the soil up. They understand local issues intimately and can translate them into actionable agendas.
Examples abound: from self-made leaders in regional parties to local representatives who rose through student unions or social movements. The success of such figures shows that people still value authenticity, accessibility, and accountability. For first-generation politicians, being visible, relatable, and accessible is a stronger brand than any inherited surname.
Digital Democracy: The New Equalizer
The rise of digital platforms has created an unexpected equalizer. Today, a first-generation politician can reach voters directly through social media, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. Targeted campaigns, WhatsApp networks, and local digital storytelling have become the new grassroots.
The “digital constituency” rewards ideas, not inheritance. A well-crafted campaign, a viral speech, or a transparent record can give a first-timer more credibility than a dynasty candidate cushioned by privilege. As parties evolve, those who master communication and data-driven outreach will increasingly challenge family legacies.
Parties Must Recalibrate
For Indian democracy to remain healthy, political parties must consciously broaden entry points for non-dynastic aspirants. Transparent ticket distribution, internal democracy, and performance-based evaluation can gradually shift the culture from family to merit.
The reality is that every dynasty eventually stagnates without infusion of new talent. Parties that fail to recognize this will lose relevance among the youth, who are increasingly impatient with hereditary entitlement.
Conclusion: A New Politics of Merit
The data is clear: dynastic dominance remains a structural challenge. But politics, unlike monarchy, is built on persuasion and public service. The first-generation politician, armed with hard work, credibility, and creativity, still stands a fighting chance — provided they play the long game.
If democracy is to thrive, India must celebrate the rise of leaders who earn, not inherit, their place. The battle between the dynastic elite and the self-made will define the next chapter of Indian politics — and perhaps, its redemption.
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Er. Shaleen Anand is a Political Analyst and Academician. He has worked with renowned political strategists Mr. Prashant Kishor and Chief Strategist of INC Mr. Sunil Kanugolu, and has also served as an Assistant Professor at a private university.