Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has asserted that the process of delimitation is “inevitable” and dismissed concerns raised by opposition parties, stating that no state will face injustice in the exercise.
Responding to criticism from parties like the Indian National Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Naidu said fears about certain states losing political representation are unfounded. He emphasised that the exercise will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, keeping the interests of all regions in mind.
Delimitation refers to the redrawing of parliamentary and assembly constituencies based on population changes. The next such exercise is expected after 2026, once the freeze on seat allocation linked to population control measures ends. Southern states, including Tamil Nadu, have expressed concern that they may lose representation relative to northern states due to differing population growth rates.
Naidu, a key ally of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), said that the process would strengthen democracy by ensuring equal representation for citizens. He argued that delimitation is a constitutional requirement and should not be politicised.
He also criticised opposition parties for what he described as attempts to “mislead people” and create unnecessary fear around the issue. According to him, cooperative federalism and consensus-building will guide the process, ensuring that no region is disadvantaged.
Leaders from the DMK and Congress, however, have maintained their opposition, warning that the exercise could tilt the balance of power in Parliament and undermine states that have successfully controlled population growth. They have called for safeguards to protect their representation.
The issue of delimitation has emerged as a major political flashpoint ahead of upcoming elections, with parties sharply divided over its potential impact. Naidu’s remarks reflect the NDA’s effort to reassure states while pushing forward a process that is set to reshape India’s electoral map in the coming years.
