KT Rama Rao, the Working President of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), has expressed approval for the long-awaited delimitation process while highlighting potential drawbacks for southern states if the exercise is restricted to population metrics. The delimitation process involves the reconfiguration of parliamentary and state assembly constituencies nationwide.

Call for Timely Implementation Based on Historical Data

KTR remarked that the delimitation in Telangana should have occurred in 2014 according to the provisions outlined in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. He acknowledged the advancements in the process, despite its delay exceeding ten years. KTR stated that the initiation of the delimitation process should be seen as a positive step, but he raised a critical issue regarding the basis on which it will be conducted.

Emphasis on Proportional Representation

The BRS leader warned that relying exclusively on current population data for delimitation could severely disadvantage the southern states. He reiterated that the longstanding position of the BRS is that delimitation should not be determined only by population figures. Instead, KTR advocated for adhering to the proportional framework used in previous delineations, particularly referencing the 1971 Census as an appropriate benchmark.

Concerns Over Representation in Parliament

KTR highlighted that southern states currently represent nearly 24% of the parliamentary composition, pointing out the importance of maintaining this proportion. He argued that states which have successfully implemented population control policies should not suffer penalties resulting from these effective measures. His comments speak to a more expansive view on equity in representation, particularly for regions that have faced unique challenges in managing population growth.

Support for Increased Assembly Seats

KTR also welcomed the proposal to expand the number of Assembly seats in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, believing that this would enhance governance by making it more accessible to the populace. He stressed the significant inequalities in the size of constituencies, citing an example where the constituency of Aswaraopet has approximately 130,000 voters, while the Serilingampally area has close to 900,000 voters. He declared that such disparities are detrimental to democratic functionality and must be addressed.

BRS’s Commitment to Fair Representation

Reiterating his party’s viewpoint, KTR expressed that the BRS supports the delimitation process on the condition that it is implemented fairly, without compromising the representation of southern states. He insisted that the delineation should be executed in such a manner that safeguards the interests of southern India, ensuring that representation remains balanced across all regions. KTR’s remarks reflect a deep-seated commitment to advocating for equitable political representation in the evolving landscape of Indian democracy.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share