Delimitation is an attempt to undermine certain states : CM

The proposed delimitation exercise based on population to be underaken by the BJP-led Government at the Centre, was a deliberate attempt to undermine certain states, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President MK Stalin said on Friday.

The ruling DMK, which had earlier convened an all-party meeting as the proposed exercise might reduce the number of Lok Sabha seats in southern states, which has implemented population control measures effectively, had resolved to form a Joint Action Committee (JAC) comprising representatives of several parties while urging the Centre to maintain status quo beyond 2026 for another 30 years on the issue.

Ahead of the key meeting of the JAC with leaders of seven states, including Chief Ministers and represenatives of more than 20 political parties of non-BJP ruled States, Stalin, in a video address said the proposed delimitation will strike at the very foundation of federalism in India.

“It will erode the essence of democracy itself. Our voices in Parliament will be silenced. Our rights will be compromised”, he said.

“This is nothing short of a deliberate attempt to undermine certain States that have controlled their population growth, governed efficiently, and contributed significantly to national progress and they must not be punished by the Union Government”, the Chief Minister said.

Stating that fair Delimitation was the talk of the town right now and as to why the DMK brought this into focus, Stalin said by 2026, Delimitation will happen.

“And if delimitation exercise is carried out based on population, our representation in Parliament will be severely affected. That is exactly why we raised our voice first”, he said.

“This is not just about the number of MPs. This is about our State’s rights. That is why we convened a meeting with all parties in Tamil Nadu”, Stalin reasoned.

“Except the BJP, Every other party stood together as one. We passed a resolution demanding a fair delimitation process. More importantly, we decided to unite the other affected states and fight together”, he added.