Bhubaneswar, April 16 (NationPress) In an ongoing effort to address concerns regarding the proposed 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill concerning delimitation, the Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik called on all Members of Parliament representing Odisha to come together, regardless of their political affiliations, and vocalize their opposition both within and outside of Parliament to safeguard the state's political representation.

In a letter sent to all Odisha MPs, Patnaik expressed, “I reach out to you not just as the President of the Biju Janata Dal, but as a fellow Odia who is earnestly dedicated to protecting our beloved State, Odisha's long-term interests, dignity, and fair representation. This representation stands to be severely compromised should the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill be approved by Parliament.”

He further asserted that the delimitation process, which alters the current balance of representation, poses a risk of diminishing the state's influence in national decision-making. He cautioned that a reduction in Odisha's representation in the Lok Sabha could weaken its capacity to address state-specific concerns, ranging from disaster management to tribal welfare and regional development.

“This transcends mere politics; it is fundamentally about upholding the federal principles embedded in our Constitution. If enacted, this Bill would slash Odisha's share in the Lok Sabha from 3.9% to 3.4%, positioning us among the top six states that would experience a decline in representation. A 0.5% drop is significant given our already modest 3.9% stake,” he added.

Patnaik emphasized that representation in Parliament for the Odia populace is not solely a numerical concern but also encompasses identity, pride, and ensuring their voice resonates at the highest levels. He cautioned that any decrease in this presence could foster a sense of disenfranchisement among citizens.

“We must ensure that the advancement of one demographic does not come at the expense of another's voice. This appears to be the outcome of the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill,” he remarked.

The BJD leader also pointed out economic implications, noting that tying women's reservations to delimitation could penalize states like Odisha, which have made commendable progress in population control and human development, thereby skewing the allocation of central resources and diminishing its voice in national priorities despite its unique developmental challenges.

He warned that a disproportionate increase in Lok Sabha seats for more populous states via this delimitation bill could distort the distribution of central resources and policy focus. Highlighting these issues, Patnaik urged all Odisha MPs, regardless of party lines, to thoroughly assess the wider repercussions of this Amendment.

“I implore you to raise your voice both within and outside Parliament to ensure that Odisha's rightful position within the Union remains secure and respected. Let us unite in defending our state's interests while advocating for genuine and fair reforms,” Patnaik concluded.

Previously, LoP Patnaik also requested Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to convene a special Assembly session to protect Odisha’s political rights.