BJP Dismisses Political Motives Surrounding Delimitation; SS(UBT) Voices Census Concerns

Synopsis

On March 22, BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticized MK Stalin's politicization of delimitation, calling for a non-political discourse. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi raised concerns about the Census's influence on political representation. The delimitation issue is pivotal as it approaches in 2026, raising fears, particularly in South India.

Key Takeaways

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticizes the politicization of delimitation by MK Stalin.
Priyanka Chaturvedi voices concerns about the impact of the upcoming Census on representation.
The delimitation process scheduled for 2026 has sparked significant political debate.
Ensuring fairness in seat allocation is critical for citizen welfare.
Central government reassures no reduction in seats for Tamil Nadu and others.

New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi addressed the delimitation matter on Saturday, asserting that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's effort to politicize delimitation is imprudent and should be devoid of any political agenda. Conversely, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi raised alarms regarding the potential repercussions of delimitation influenced by the forthcoming Census.

In an interview with IANS, Naqvi stated, "Opposition members ought to recall that delimitation occurred during the Congress era across several major states. The delimitation formula incorporates various factors such as social conditions, population demographics, and geographical characteristics of an area. The process is executed methodically, taking these elements into account."

Naqvi continued, "Delimitation is not a novel concern; it is being deliberated within the context of numerous factors, including social, demographic, and geographical realities. Chief Minister Stalin's endeavor to politicize delimitation is unwise."

"Politicians should engage in discussions about delimitation grounded in logical reasoning and factual evidence, rather than fostering confusion or contradictions. This process must be approached with seriousness and accountability, as any attempts to politicize it will not prevail."

On the contrary, Chaturvedi voiced her apprehensions regarding the potential influence of the delimitation process tied to the upcoming Census in 2026.

She remarked, "Delimitation is not a recent issue; it has been postponed for several years. The concerns are that the delimitation will rely on the new Census, which could result in certain states gaining or losing political representation based on shifts in population. This is a vital concern; delimitation must ensure equitable seat distribution so citizens can benefit from welfare initiatives rather than be adversely affected by political maneuvering."

She urged for a non-political dialogue in Parliament to address the issue.

The delimitation topic has gained prominence in political discussions after Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister MK Stalin held a significant meeting to consider the potential ramifications of the delimitation process.

Stalin suggested that equitable delimitation is crucial for safeguarding the political rights of the state, indicating that what began as an initiative in Tamil Nadu has now transformed into a national cause.

In his commentary, CM Stalin noted that South Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, might experience a decrease in political representation in the Lok Sabha if delimitation is solely based on population metrics.

He mentioned that following the meeting, his party's MPs and ministers have been coordinating with other political leaders and chief ministers to establish a united stance.

The delimitation process, scheduled for 2026, has incited anxiety among some factions, particularly in South Indian territories, regarding potential seat reductions.

Nonetheless, the central government has allayed these concerns, assuring that there will be no decrease in the number of seats allocated to Tamil Nadu and other states.