M.K. Stalin Invites All Parties for Delimitation Discussion on March 5
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Synopsis
Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has called for an all-party meeting on March 5 to discuss the potential impacts of delimitation on the state's parliamentary representation, emphasizing the need for unity among political parties to address this critical issue.
Key Takeaways
- All-party meeting scheduled for March 5.
- Delimitation threatens Tamil Nadu's parliamentary seats.
- State could lose up to eight Lok Sabha seats.
- Importance of unity among political parties highlighted.
- Delimitation perceived as a threat to state rights.
Chennai, Feb 25 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, has convened an all-party meeting set for March 5 to address the delimitation issue that poses a risk to the state’s representation in Parliament.
After presiding over a state Cabinet meeting, CM Stalin announced that all registered political parties — approximately 40 — will be invited to participate in the discussion.
“Tamil Nadu is facing a significant battle for its rights. We have resolved to extend invitations to all 40 political parties recognized by the Election Commission of India. Correspondence will be sent to all parties concerning the delimitation issue,” CM Stalin remarked.
He pointed out that Tamil Nadu has been a leader in various development metrics and would face severe repercussions from the delimitation process.
Currently, Tamil Nadu holds 39 Lok Sabha seats. CM Stalin cautioned that, according to population statistics, the state could potentially lose up to eight seats, which would diminish its representation to just 31 MPs.
Even if the overall number of MPs in the country rises, the proportional delimitation approach would continue to disadvantage Tamil Nadu, he contended.
“If delimitation is executed solely based on population, states with larger populations will receive additional representation. Consequently, Tamil Nadu’s voice in Parliament would be diminished,” he stated.
CM Stalin highlighted that this issue extends beyond mere numbers; it pertains to the fundamental rights of the state.
“As an initial measure, we are organizing this meeting to unite all political parties and leaders of Tamil Nadu to deliberate on this vital issue. I encourage all political factions to set aside their differences, attend the meeting, and share their perspectives,” he urged.
Describing delimitation as the proverbial ‘Sword of Damocles’ looming over Southern states — particularly those that have effectively implemented population control measures — CM Stalin cautioned that this process could unjustly penalize progressive states like Tamil Nadu.
He had previously noted that delimitation could lead people to contemplate having “16 children,” alluding to a Tamil proverb regarding 16 forms of wealth.
He emphasized that because Tamil Nadu has successfully embraced family planning initiatives, it now faces the fallout of losing parliamentary representation due to the delimitation process.
Furthermore, CM Stalin encouraged newly married couples to give their children appropriate Tamil names — a nod to the ongoing language debate, which has gained attention following the BJP’s promotion of a three-language policy through a door-to-door initiative.
