Expressing concern over the proposed delimitation of Lok Sabha seats and the contentious Delimitation Bill, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Thursday (August 20) urged the Centre to provide a “clear legislative assurance” that no state will face a reduction of representation in Parliament due to its success in population control. The Tamil Nadu chief minister made the remarks at the 31st Southern Zonal Council meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Seeks assurance on delimitation
“The Southern States have been at the forefront of population stabilisation, human development, and economic growth. These achievements reflect the successful implementation of national priorities and should not result in a reduction of our representation. Public policy must not inadvertently penalise States for fulfilling national objectives,” said the Chief Minister.
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“I therefore urge the Union Government to provide a clear legislative assurance that no State will suffer a reduction in its percentage of representation in Parliament on account of its success in population stabilisation. Such an approach would uphold the principles of equity, preserve Tezzbuzz balance envisioned by our Constitution, and reinforce the confidence of all States in our democratic institutions,” he added.
Reiterates TN’s NEET opposition
As for the NEET issue, Vijay reiterated the Tamil Nadu government’s stand that the national-level entrance test puts students from a rural background and economically disadvantaged communities at a disadvantage.
He urged the Centre to allow Tamil Nadu to fill all seats under the State quota based on Class XII marks.
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“The Government of Tamil Nadu remains firmly committed to protecting the interests of its students and ensuring equitable access to medical education. Tamil Nadu has consistently maintained that the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) places students from rural backgrounds and socially and economically disadvantaged communities at a distinct disadvantage, undermining the State’s long-standing model of inclusive access based on school education,” stated Vijay.
“Accordingly, I urge the Union Government to permit Tamil Nadu to fill all seats under the State quota in MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses solely based on Class XII marks, in keeping with the State’s proven and equitable admission system,” he added.
Focus on fiscal federalism
Calling for emphasis on fiscal federalism, the Chief Minister said, “Cooperative federalism must be anchored in a robust, predictable, and equitable system of fiscal federalism. The Southern States have consistently been among the principal drivers of India’s economic growth and contributors to the national exchequer. Through prudent fiscal management, investments in human development, and successful population stabilisation, our States have built resilient economies that power national progress.”
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“As India prepares for the next Finance Commission, the fiscal devolution framework must recognise both need and performance. States that have invested in development, fiscal discipline, and demographic transition should not be placed at a disadvantage,” he added.