Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday termed the proposed delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies a “contentious” issue, warning that carrying out the exercise without a fresh Census could trigger strong political opposition, particularly from southern states, reported PTI.
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, the Rajya Sabha MP clarified that his party does not oppose the implementation of the women’s reservation law but raised serious concerns over the process being linked with delimitation, reported PTI.
No Objection to Women’s Reservation
Raut said there is no reason for the Shiv Sena (UBT) to oppose the proposed implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act, which seeks to reserve 33 per cent of seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies.
He emphasised that the party has consistently supported women’s political participation, noting that Maharashtra was among the first states to provide significant reservation for women in local self-government institutions, reported PTI.
Delimitation Without Census Raises Concerns
However, Raut strongly objected to the delimitation process being undertaken without conducting a nationwide Census. He said such a move could create a “serious situation” across the country and undermine the fairness of representation, reported PTI.
“The issue of delimitation is contentious and is being done without conducting the Census,” he said, warning that the absence of updated population data could lead to disputes over seat allocation, reported PTI.
Southern States Likely to Oppose Move
Raut also pointed out that several southern states have already expressed opposition to the proposed exercise. He cited leaders such as M K Stalin and Revanth Reddy, who have raised concerns about the potential impact of delimitation on their states’ political representation, reported PTI.
According to Raut, if population becomes the sole criterion for redrawing constituencies, states that have successfully controlled population growth may face reduced representation in Parliament.
Special Parliament Session and Seat Expansion Plan
The Centre has convened a special three-day session of Parliament from April 16 to 18 to discuss amendments related to the implementation of the women’s reservation framework. The plan includes a significant expansion of the Lok Sabha, increasing the number of seats from 543 to as many as 850.
The proposed changes are aimed at operationalising the reservation for women ahead of the 2029 general elections. Additionally, the draft amendment bill provides for an increase in seats in state assemblies and Union Territory legislatures to accommodate the quota.
Maharashtra Seat Numbers Set to Rise
Raut noted that under the proposal, Maharashtra’s representation in the Lok Sabha could increase from 48 to 72 seats. Similarly, the strength of the state legislative assembly may rise from 288 to 400 members, reported PTI.
However, he raised practical concerns about infrastructure, pointing out that the current Vidhan Bhavan may not have the capacity to accommodate such a large number of legislators.
Questions Over Political Intent
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also questioned whether logistical challenges were being used to justify broader political changes. He hinted at concerns that such developments could have wider implications for the state’s political structure, reported PTI.
(With inputs from PTI)
