Namakkal, April 16 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has escalated his resistance against the Centre's proposed delimitation initiative by symbolically setting ablaze a copy of the delimitation bill and raising a black flag.

Leading the charge, Stalin burned the contentious bill in Namakkal, simultaneously hoisting a black flag as part of a statewide protest he organized.

Previously, he had called upon the citizens of Tamil Nadu to display black flags on their rooftops as a sign of dissent, labeling the proposed legislation a “black law” that jeopardizes the state's political representation.

In a related symbolic act, a black flag was also raised outside Stalin’s residence in Chennai.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) indicated that this action was designed to solidify the party's staunch opposition and stimulate extensive public engagement.

This protest aligns with the special parliamentary session scheduled from April 16 to 18, during which the Union government is anticipated to present significant legislation, including the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, the Delimitation Bill, and amendments concerning Union Territories. The proposed changes aim to redraw parliamentary constituencies and implement a 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha.

Currently, the Lok Sabha comprises members based on the 1971 Census, with 543 elected representatives out of a possible 550.

Given the substantial growth of India's population since then, the Centre intends to initiate a fresh delimitation process. According to the proposal, the Lok Sabha's strength might increase to approximately 850 members, which would include about 35 seats for Union Territories.

The reforms are also associated with the rollout of women’s reservation ahead of the 2029 general elections, potentially allocating around 280 seats.

Simultaneously, Stalin continued his election campaign in the Namakkal district in anticipation of the April 23 Assembly polls, where voting will occur across Tamil Nadu, with results expected on May 4.

He conducted a roadshow near the Namakkal Uzhavar Sandhai area, campaigning alongside DMK candidate Rani and interacting with farmers, traders, and the public while seeking support for the party’s ‘Rising Sun’ symbol.

This move has provoked significant opposition from southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, due to concerns that a population-based redistribution of seats would disproportionately benefit northern states and undermine the representation of states that have successfully managed population growth.

Labeling it a threat to the federal balance, Stalin affirmed that Tamil Nadu would vigorously oppose any modifications to representation that would disadvantage the state.

The black flag protests sweeping across Tamil Nadu are viewed as a coordinated display of dissent as Parliament commences discussions on these controversial bills.