Roadmap for Answer Writing

Step 1: Introduction

• Briefly define delimitation and its purpose.
• Mention the constitutional and procedural context of delimitation (such as the freeze on delimitation after the 1971 Census, the 84th Constitutional Amendment of 2002, and the planned delimitation after the 2026 Census).

Example Introduction:
Delimitation is the process of redrawing boundaries of constituencies for Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, based on population data from the latest Census. The purpose of delimitation is to ensure equal representation of voters in each constituency. However, the Census-based delimitation system, particularly the freeze imposed by the 84th Constitutional Amendment, raises several issues, primarily related to fairness in representation and regional imbalances.

Step 2: Identify the Issues

You need to list the main issues related to census-based delimitation. These can be divided into multiple sections, each addressing a distinct concern.

1. Disincentivizing Population Control

• Explanation: Northern states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh have higher population growth rates compared to southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala. This leads to a disproportionate allocation of seats in favor of the northern states, as these states continue to grow in population.Fact: Northern states have decennial population growth rates between 12-15%, while southern states have slower growth rates of 6-10%.
• Consequence: The higher population growth in northern states incentivizes them to maintain high birth rates, while southern states may see fewer incentives to control their population, fearing a loss of representation.

2. Imbalance in Representation

• Explanation: The redistribution of seats could favor northern states at the expense of southern states, causing an imbalance in regional representation.Fact: A study before the 2019 general elections projected that northern states could gain more than 32 seats, while southern states may lose up to 24 seats after the planned delimitation.
• Consequence: This would further reduce the political influence of southern states and could shift national political power towards the northern region.

3. Erosion of Regional Parties’ Influence

• Explanation: Regional parties in the south, which play a significant role in the political landscape, could lose influence if their states lose seats. The resulting shift in seat distribution could empower parties in the northern states.Fact: The projected seat redistribution could increase the power of northern parties, weakening the political voice of southern parties.

4. Impact on Reserved Seats for SC/STs

• Explanation: Delimitation will also affect constituencies reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), potentially altering the representation of marginalized communities.Fact: Changes in constituency boundaries could lead to shifts in the proportion of SC/ST reserved constituencies, potentially diluting their political representation.

Step 3: Suggested Solutions

After presenting the issues, discuss potential solutions to address the challenges posed by census-based delimitation.

1. Fixed Proportionality

• Explanation: Before making any changes, there should be a fixed proportionality to balance the representation of northern and southern states, ensuring that both regions are fairly represented.

2. Deviation for Special Circumstances

• Explanation: Delimitation should take into account special populations like those in remote or hilly areas, ensuring that these groups are not underrepresented due to low population density.

3. Increasing the Total Number of Seats

• Explanation: By increasing the total number of seats in the Lok Sabha, states would not lose existing seats even if their relative populations decline. This would preserve regional representation and mitigate the negative effects of delimitation.

Step 4: Conclusion

• Summary: Reiterate the main concerns about census-based delimitation, particularly the imbalance it creates between northern and southern states, and the potential erosion of regional diversity in Indian politics.
• Call for Balanced Approach: Emphasize the need for a balanced and inclusive approach to delimitation, where both population and special regional concerns are taken into account.

Example Conclusion:

While census-based delimitation aims to ensure equal representation for voters, it raises concerns about regional imbalances, the erosion of the influence of southern states and regional parties, and the disincentive for population control. A balanced approach, considering both fixed proportionality and the special needs of different regions, would ensure fair representation for all.