Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Wednesday moved a resolution in the state Assembly opposing the proposed delimitation exercise, raising concerns over women's reservation and the possible impact on the parliamentary representation of southern states.
The resolution argues that the implementation of the Women's Reservation Act should not be linked with the Census and delimitation process. Vijay said delaying women's political representation until the completion of these exercises could affect the objective of providing equal participation.
Vijay Demands Immediate Implementation of Women's Reservation
Speaking in the Assembly, Vijay highlighted the importance of women's participation in politics and said women have played a significant role in shaping his personal and political journey.
He said women represent nearly half of the population and deserve equal representation at every level of governance.
Vijay pointed out that despite Tamil Nadu having a high number of women voters, the number of women legislators remains limited. He argued that the 33% reservation for women should be implemented without waiting for future delimitation and Census exercises.
Concern Over Southern States Losing Parliamentary Influence
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister also raised concerns about a possible reduction in the representation of southern states after the 2026 Census-based delimitation exercise.
He argued that states like Tamil Nadu, which successfully controlled population growth, should not be penalized through a reduction in parliamentary seats.
Vijay said that any redistribution based purely on population figures could impact the political influence of southern states in Parliament. He demanded that the current strength of the Lok Sabha, which stands at 543 seats, should remain protected.
Political Parties Divided Over Resolution
The resolution received support from parties including the CPI(M) and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). DMDK also raised concerns over population-based seat redistribution.
However, the BJP, AIADMK and PMK opposed the resolution. AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami said the Center had already assured that Tamil Nadu's representation would not decline due to delimitation.
He also questioned the need to pass a resolution before the details of any new Delimitation Bill are revealed.
Delimitation Debate Gains Momentum
The delimitation issue has triggered a wider political debate, particularly among southern states that fear losing relative representation despite their population-control achievements.
The Tamil Nadu government has maintained that any future delimitation process must protect federal balance and ensure fair representation for all states.