Delimitation Debate: Southern States Fear Loss of Political Representation

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 14)

Topic: GS2 – Polity

Context

The Union Home Minister assured that southern states would not lose parliamentary seats after delimitation, addressing concerns over potential political representation shifts.

Analysis of the news:

What is Delimitation?

• Delimitation is the constitutional process of redrawing electoral boundaries and reallocating seats in Parliament and State Assemblies based on the latest population data.

• It ensures equitable representation, preventing significant disparities in constituency sizes.

• The last major delimitation occurred in 1976, with seat allocation frozen to encourage family planning efforts in high-growth states.

• In 2001, only constituency boundaries were adjusted, but seat numbers remained unchanged.

Concerns of Southern States

• Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh fear that delimitation based on the latest population figures would reduce their parliamentary representation.

• Since these states have successfully controlled population growth, they worry about losing political influence to northern states, which have higher population growth rates.

• Political leaders have openly voiced concerns that a population-based delimitation would unfairly advantage states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Data on Seat Redistribution

• If the average population per constituency remains around 10.11 lakh (as in 1977), Lok Sabha strength could rise to nearly 1,400 seats, with UP and Bihar gaining significantly.

• Even with a revised average of 20 lakh per constituency (707 seats) or 15 lakh (942 seats), northern states would still gain disproportionately.

• Tamil Nadu and Kerala would see little or no increase, while UP and Bihar would gain dozens of additional seats.

Impact on Electoral Politics

• A population-based delimitation could shift electoral dominance towards the Hindi heartland, potentially benefiting national parties like the BJP, which has a stronger presence in the North.

• Regional parties in South India, as well as the Congress, which has relied heavily on South Indian support in recent elections, may find themselves at a disadvantage.

• This could significantly alter political strategies and coalition dynamics ahead of future elections.

Conclusion

• The delimitation debate highlights the complex balance between democratic representation and regional equity.

• While ensuring proportional representation is essential, it must not come at the cost of politically and economically stable regions feeling disadvantaged.

• A pragmatic approach that safeguards the interests of all states while upholding constitutional mandates is necessary for national unity and governance effectiveness.

PYQ: With reference to the Delimitation Commission consider the following statements: (2012) The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law. When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modification in the orders. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (c)

Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the delimitation process in India. How can the government ensure a fair and balanced representation of states in Parliament while addressing concerns of regional disparities? (150 Words /10 marks)