The Delimitation Dilemma

The upcoming 2026 delimitation may reduce representation of southern states, sparking political concern over fairness and federalism, writes Rabinarayan Samantara

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THE delimitation of Parliament and Assembly constituencies in different States is going to fall due in 2026. This sensitive issue has created considerable hue and cry in the political circles, raising apprehensions over its serious fallout if population is taken as the only criterion in the distribution of Lok Sabha seats across different States and Union Territories.

In recent times, the opposition ruled States such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana and Punjab have expressed their grave concerns over the delimitation issue in terms of a possible reduction in their representation in the parliament along with the consequent dilution of their compelling voice in the conduct of parliamentary business.

The recent joint action committee meeting on "fair delimitation" convened by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Chennai on 22nd March, 2025 was attended by the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telengana and Punjab, the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and certain representatives of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Bharat Rasthra Samithi (BRS). The main objective of this political move was to mobilise public opinion over the issue and seek both legal and constitutional avenues to oppose and challenge any unfairness in the implementation of the delimitation exercise falling due in 2026.