CM Stalin Calls on PM Modi for Delimitation Assurance Based on 1971 Census

Chennai, March 5 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide a commitment in Parliament that any future delimitation of parliamentary constituencies starting in 2026 would rely on the 1971 population census and continue for the next three decades.

An all-party gathering organized by the Tamil Nadu government at the state secretariat passed a resolution underscoring this request.

The meeting was attended by representatives from over 55 political parties and organizations from southern states.

CM Stalin also declared the establishment of a Joint Action Committee comprising MPs from Tamil Nadu and other southern states to advocate and raise awareness on this matter.

During the meeting, CM Stalin cautioned that delimitation based on current population figures could drastically reduce Tamil Nadu’s parliamentary representation.

“Delimitation is like a sword hanging over the heads of southern states. In 2026, the Union government is poised to conduct the delimitation of parliamentary constituencies. This process typically hinges on population metrics. Tamil Nadu has successfully managed its population through family planning, women’s empowerment, and enhanced healthcare. However, this achievement should not translate into diminished representation in Parliament,” he stated.

He elaborated that if the existing 543 parliamentary constituencies remain unchanged, Tamil Nadu might lose eight seats, reducing its representation from 39 to 32.

CM Stalin further explained, “If the total number of constituencies expands to 848 and delimitation is conducted based on percentage representation, Tamil Nadu should gain 22 additional seats. However, if the process is strictly population-driven, we would only acquire 10 more seats—resulting in a net loss of 12 seats. In both scenarios, Tamil Nadu’s representation will decline.”

The Chief Minister emphasized that this issue poses a significant threat to India’s federal structure and the representation of Tamil Nadu and other southern states.

He recalled that in 2000, the Centre had assured that delimitation would be based on the 1971 population census to motivate states to implement family planning.

“In the same vein, Prime Minister Narendra Modi should now assure that this principle will be adhered to from 2026 for the next 30 years,” he asserted.

To advance this cause, a Joint Action Committee will be formed, consisting of MPs from Tamil Nadu and other southern states across various political parties.

CM Stalin announced that formal invitations will be dispatched to these parties for their involvement.

He reiterated that Tamil Nadu is not opposed to delimitation, but it should not serve as a penalty for states that have successfully implemented effective social welfare and population control policies over the last 50 years.

The all-party meeting unanimously rejected delimitation based on current population data, contending that it would be harmful to the political representation of Tamil Nadu and other southern states.

Notable leaders who participated in the meeting included the AIADMK Organising Secretary and former minister D. Jayakumar, Congress state President and MLA Selvaperunthagai, CPI state Secretary Mutharasan, CPM state Secretary Shanmugham, VCK chief Thirumavalavan, MDMK chief Vaiko, TVK General Secretary N. Anand, PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss, Dravidar Kazhagam leader Veeramani, and MNM President Kamal Haasan.

Other political leaders and representatives also took part in the discussions.