One out of four BJP candidates in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are defectors from other parties. An analysis of the 417 candidates announced shows that 116 of them, that is 28%, have switched sides to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The highest number of such defectors, 37, are from the Indian National Congress.

In Indian politics, the phrase 'Aya Ram Gaya Ram' is often used to describe politicians who frequently switch parties. The story goes that Gaya Lal, an MLA from Hodal, Haryana, won the election as an independent candidate in 1967 and joined the Congress. Thereafter, he changed parties thrice in 15 days.

Between 1967 and 1983, there were approximately 2,700 defections at the state level. As many as 15 defectors went on to become chief ministers. This high number of defections led to the enactment of the Anti-Defection Law, the 52nd Amendment Act of 1985.

Even though the anti-defection law is in place, it is very easy to circumvent it. The Supreme Court's rulings on this matter have also not been enough to curb the malaise. Politicians now often resign from their original party, instead of formally 'crossing the floor' or voting against their party in a confidence motion. This sidesteps the law, while bringing down the party's........

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