Telangana became the second state in the southern region to formally oppose the upcoming delimitation exercise, with the state assembly passing a resolution today to press the Centre to halt the population-based exercise. The resolution, moved by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, seeks to protect the political rights and representation of southern states ahead of the 2029 general election, amid growing concerns that the exercise could reduce their political influence.
The resolution voiced deep concern about the lack of transparent consultations with stakeholders in the planning of the delimitation process. It specifically highlighted fears that southern states, which have effectively implemented family planning policies, could see their representation drop significantly. Reddy warned that the southern states' representation in the Lok Sabha could fall from 24% to 19% if population-based criteria are used in the delimitation process.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Reddy reaffirmed the state's stance, stating, "We passed a resolution today asking the Centre not to take any steps that compromise the political self-respect and legitimate rights of our people. The people of Telangana and citizens of all other states of south India are united in protecting our rights. We will fight against all attempts to take away our rights. The first battle was won today. The war ahead is long but we will eventually prevail."
Reddy also called for the number of seats in Telangana's state assembly to be increased from 119 to 153, in accordance with the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act. His comments reflect broader regional concerns over the central government's approach to delimitation, which is seen as a means to consolidate control over southern states.
Tamil Nadu was the first state to pass a resolution against the delimitation in 2024, and since then, opposition to the exercise has gathered momentum. A key meeting organized by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin brought together leaders from six southern states, including three chief ministers, to discuss the matter. This meeting resulted in a resolution demanding a freeze on the 1971 census-based delimitation for the next 25 years and the formation of a core committee of MPs to defend the interests of southern states.
The southern states argue that they should not be penalized for implementing effective population control measures. They also advocate for an increase in their representation in the Lok Sabha, with Reddy pushing for their share to rise from 24% to 33%, noting that these states contribute significantly to India's GDP and deserve a stronger voice in parliament.
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