Southern states demand 1971 census as basis for delimitation, fear losing representation
New Delhi: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's all-party meeting has reignited the debate on delimitation, with southern states urging the Centre to retain the 1971 Census as the basis for seat allocation for the next 30 years. The resolution passed at the meeting condemned the impending delimitation exercise, citing concerns over political representation and resource allocation.
The controversy arises from fears that the upcoming delimitation, likely based on the 2021 Census, will benefit northern states with higher population growth rates while disadvantaging southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, which have successfully controlled their population growth.
Concerns over representation
Southern leaders argue that using the latest Census data for delimitation would reduce or stagnate the number of Lok Sabha seats in the South while significantly increasing representation for northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan. However, Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that southern states would not lose seats under a "pro-rata" delimitation method.
According to some studies, if the 2021 Census is used, Karnataka’s seats may drop from 28 to 26, Andhra Pradesh’s from 42 to 34, Kerala’s from 20 to 12, and Tamil Nadu’s from 39 to 31. Meanwhile, the North’s share of Lok Sabha seats is projected to rise to nearly 60%.
Historical context
Delimitation exercises have been conducted in 1952, 1962, 1972, and 2002 under the Delimitation Commission. The current Lok Sabha strength of 543 seats is based on the 1971 Census, as a constitutional amendment froze delimitation until 2026. Under Article 82 of the Constitution, only Census data post-2026 can be used for future delimitation. However, the decadal Census, originally scheduled for 2021, has been indefinitely delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Experts call for rational formula
Constitutional expert P.D.T. Achary stated that while demands for using the 1971 Census are understandable, a long-term solution is needed. He suggested a differentiated approach, where states with larger populations could have constituencies based on 20-25 lakh people, while smaller states could be allotted seats based on a lower population threshold.
The issue has also sparked political backlash, with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy accusing the BJP of using delimitation to consolidate power. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has also opposed the move, calling it an attempt to weaken southern states politically.
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Karnataka: College student dies by suicide in Dharwad, 3 policemen suspended
Dharwad (Karnataka) (PTI): A college student allegedly died by suicide here, following which three policemen were suspended over allegations of harassment linked to his death by the victim's family.
Aditya Myageri, a BSc student at a private college here, was among 18 students detained by the Vidyagiri police on April 25 during an anti-drug drive, police said on Wednesday.
He hailed from Belur village in Bagalkot district, but was staying with his friends at a rented accommodation in Girinagar area of Dharwad city, police said.
Among the 18 students tested, Aditya was among the 10 who had tested negative for ganja consumption and was subsequently released.
Some of his roommates, however, tested positive.
According to police, Aditya's family alleged that despite testing negative, he was harassed by police. They also claimed some policemen demanded Rs 2,000 to settle the matter and threatened legal action if he failed to pay.
He had called his mother asking for money, but she could not arrange it immediately, the family claimed.
On Monday night, Aditya allegedly died by suicide by hanging from a ceiling fan at his rented accommodation, with his family alleging police harassment and pressure over demand for money drove him to the extreme step, a senior police officer said.
Police Commissioner N Shashi Kumar told PTI that an unnatural death case has been registered at Vidyagiri police station. Three policemen have been suspended over the allegations, and further investigation is underway.
