Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reassured southern states that their parliamentary representation will remain intact during the upcoming delimitation process. Addressing concerns over a potential loss of seats due to population control measures, Shah stated, “I have already said in Parliament that states need not worry. Their concerns will not only be addressed but also protected.”
Delimitation is the redrawing of electoral boundaries based on the latest census data, ensuring equal representation across regions. The next delimitation exercise is scheduled after the 2024 general elections, following the completion of the census.
Southern states have raised concerns that their success in population control might lead to a reduction in parliamentary seats, shifting political power toward more populous northern states. However, Shah’s assurance aims to ease these apprehensions by ensuring that no state will lose its existing representation.
The delimitation process is crucial for implementing the Women’s Reservation Bill, which reserves 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. The bill’s provisions will take effect only after the delimitation exercise, making it essential to address regional concerns for smooth implementation.
With this assurance, the government has pledged to maintain equitable representation across all regions, acknowledging the efforts of states that have effectively managed population growth. This move seeks to balance regional representation while ensuring fairness in the political landscape.
