HYDERABAD: MLC Prof Kodandaram has issued a strong warning that the Centre’s proposed delimitation of parliamentary constituencies could severely disadvantage South Indian states.
Speaking at a roundtable seminar held in Hyderabad, he urged the people of the region to treat the matter with urgency, cautioning that inaction could result in lasting harm.
Kodandaram noted that the southern states have raised serious objections to the delimitation plans being considered by the Central government. He emphasised that while South India contributes a higher share of tax revenues compared to the North, the central allocations are disproportionately in favour of northern states. “Despite paying more into the system, the South receives less in return,” he said.
He warned that if the number of parliamentary seats in the South is reduced under the new delimitation process, it would result in a significant loss of representation. He called for immediate public discussion to resist any such move.
The seminar comes amid growing concerns voiced by leaders like Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who has alleged that the Centre is attempting to use delimitation to marginalise South Indian states. Stalin has already held meetings with other southern Chief Ministers and has urged that delimitation should not be based solely on population figures.
Several other political leaders have also met Union Ministers, stressing the need for a fair and balanced approach to delimitation that does not penalise the South.
Kodandaram reiterated that this is not merely a political issue, but one that affects the democratic strength and federal balance of the country, making it crucial for the southern public to stay vigilant.
