TN CM Stalin Doubles Down On Oppn To Delimitation Based On Fresh Census: 'Use 1971 Data As Base'
Stalin also called on PM Modi to make a parliamentary assurance that the delimitation process will not penalize southern states for their successful socio-economic policies.
Tamil Nadu All Party Meet: TN CM MK Stalin on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide a parliamentary assurance that any future delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies--starting from 2026--will be based on the 1971 Census and remain in effect for the next 30 years. The demand was formalised in a resolution passed during an all-party meeting convened at the Tamil Nadu secretariat, attended by representatives from over 55 political parties and organisations across southern states.
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The all-party meeting saw participation from Opposition AIADMK, DMK's alliance partners Congress and the Left parties, and actor-politician Vijay’s Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK). Parties including the BJP, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), and Tamil Maanila Congress (Moopanar) boycotted the meet.
The parties took the stand based on DMK-led government's consistent opposition to population-based delimitation, arguing that it disproportionately affects states that have curbed population growth.
Concerns Over Parliamentary Representation
Speaking at the meeting, CM Stalin warned that a population-based delimitation could significantly reduce Tamil Nadu’s parliamentary representation. He emphasised that Tamil Nadu’s successful population control measures through family planning, women’s empowerment, and improved healthcare should not lead to fewer seats in Parliament.
"Delimitation is like a sword hanging over the heads of southern states. In 2026, the Union government is set to undertake the delimitation of parliamentary constituencies. This process is usually based on population. Tamil Nadu has successfully controlled its population through family planning, women's empowerment, and improved healthcare. However, this success should not lead to reduced representation in Parliament," he said, as per a report on IANS.
Thankful to all parties that stood together as a single unit in the All-party Meeting convened by the Government of Tamil Nadu, setting aside the political differences to send a clear and uncompromising message on the unjust #Delimitation initiative.
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) March 5, 2025
The resolutions passed today… pic.twitter.com/d3fZnKdA4z
The resolution reiterated that if the number of Lok Sabha seats is increased, it should be based on the 1971 Census, requiring an appropriate Constitutional amendment. Stalin also called on PM Modi to make a parliamentary assurance that the delimitation process will not penalize southern states for their successful socio-economic policies.
Taking to X, Stalin said: "If parliamentary seats are increased, Tamil Nadu’s representation must rise proportionally as per the existing framework. No manipulation or dilution of our rightful political voice will be acceptable. Tamil Nadu’s existing percentage of seats, 7.18 per cent of the total, must not be reduced under any circumstances."
Formation of JAC
In the meet, CM Stalin also proposed a Joint Action Committee (JAC) comprising MPs from Tamil Nadu and other southern states to protest against the delimitation exercise and raise awareness among the public, reported PTI.
The committee will function with aim to protect federalism and the political rights of southern states, emphasising that delimitation should not be a punishment for implementing effective welfare schemes over the last 50 years.
Union Government’s Stand
Recently, Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured that the delimitation process will not impact southern states and accused CM Stalin of misleading the public on the issue.
On the other hand, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy have also questioned Amit Shah’s stance, expressing concerns over reduced political representation for their states.
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