Union Home Minister Amit Shah has tried to ease growing concerns over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying southern states will not lose their voice in the Lok Sabha even if the total number of seats increases.
The reassurance comes amid fears from several Opposition parties that a population-based redistribution of seats could favour northern states, where population growth has been higher, and reduce the influence of the South.
Shah explained that the Centre is planning a major expansion of the Lok Sabha, with the total number of seats likely to go beyond 800 from the current 543. According to him, this increase would ensure that every state gains more seats, rather than losing out.
He also shared projections to support his claim. Tamil Nadu could see its seats rise from 39 to 59, Karnataka from 28 to 42, Kerala from 20 to 30, Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 38, and Telangana from 17 to 26. While northern states are also expected to gain seats, the government argues that the overall share of southern states will remain broadly similar.
Despite these assurances, doubts remain. Opposition leaders argue that even a small shift in percentage share could have long-term political consequences, especially for states that have successfully controlled population growth over the years. They believe such states should not be put at a disadvantage in national representation.
The issue has also become linked to the Women’s Reservation Bill, which promises 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. The government has said the quota will be implemented only after a fresh Census and delimitation exercise, which means it may not come into effect until after the 2029 general elections.
Opposition parties have criticised this linkage, saying it could delay the much-awaited reservation for women.
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