Understanding Delimitation and Its Implications on Indian Politics
With the freeze on delimitation set to lapse in 2026, the debate on the formula for parliamentary seat allocation has intensified due to disproportionate population growth between northern and southern states. This has raised concerns about fairness, equity, and federalism among political leaders, especially from southern states.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 82: Mandates Parliament to enact a Delimitation Act following every Census.
- Article 170: Determines state legislative assemblies' composition based on population data.
- Article 55: Ensures proportional representation of states in presidential elections.
- Article 81: Specifies the number of Lok Sabha seats and their distribution based on population.
Historical Context and Future Projections
Following the 42nd Amendment in 1976, parliamentary seats were frozen to prevent penalizing states with successful family planning. This was extended until post-2026 census.
- The upcoming delimitation could reduce South Indian states' representation significantly while increasing that of North Indian states.
- If the total number of seats remains at 543, North Indian states could hold 205 seats, while South Indian states' representation would shrink to 103 seats.
- If expanded to 888 seats, projections suggest North Indian states would gain 324 seats (39%), and South Indian states would have 164 seats (19%).
Challenges and Concerns
- Population Growth: Northern states' population has surged, demanding more representation, while southern states have stabilized their populations.
- Political Representation: Potential reduction in representation for South Indian states, where BJP has limited influence except in Karnataka.
- Federalism: Concerns about centralizing power and imposition of policies and languages by the BJP-led government, affecting federal structure.
- Economic Contribution: Southern states contribute more to GDP and taxation but face risks of reduced political representation.
Recommendations for Equitable Delimitation
- Incorporate population control achievements into delimitation considerations.
- Account for states' economic contributions, developmental achievements, and governance success.
- Ensure equitable representation to uphold justice and democracy, respecting all regions' contributions.
To maintain India's diversity and regional harmony, delimitation must be conducted equitably, safeguarding the interests of all states.