Senior leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, K. T. Rama Rao, has strongly criticized the Union government’s proposed delimitation exercise, cautioning that it could trigger political unrest across South India.
Speaking at a public event in Hyderabad, KTR argued that the planned redrawing of parliamentary constituencies based on population would unfairly disadvantage southern states that have successfully controlled population growth over the years. He said such a move risks reducing the political representation of these states in the Lok Sabha.
KTR emphasized that states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Telangana have made significant progress in Education, Healthcare and Family planning, which has resulted in slower population growth compared to some northern states. He warned that using population as the sole basis for delimitation would “Penalize progress” and reward regions with higher population growth.
The BRS leader also alleged that the Centre’s approach could widen regional disparities and fuel dissatisfaction among southern states. “This is not just about politics, it is about fairness and federal balance” he said, adding that the voices of southern states must not be weakened in national decision making.
The delimitation exercise, expected after the next census, has already sparked debate across political circles. Critics argue that it could shift political power significantly, while supporters say it is necessary to ensure equal representation based on population.
KTR called for a broader consultation process involving all states and political parties before any final decision is made. He urged the Centre to consider factors beyond population, such as development indicators and governance performance, to ensure a balanced outcome.
Political observers note that the issue is likely to become a major national debate in the coming years, especially as southern states increasingly push back against policies they view as undermining their representation.
The Union government has not yet issued a detailed response to these concerns but has previously stated that any delimitation process would follow constitutional provisions and aim to maintain fairness in representation.
As discussions intensify, the issue of delimitation is emerging as a key flashpoint in Centre state relations, with potential implications for the country’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
