New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday sharply criticised the Centre’s move to link the women’s reservation framework with the delimitation exercise, calling it a “panic reaction” aimed at political advantage rather than genuine empowerment.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha during a debate on proposed legislative changes, Gandhi argued that the government’s approach to implementing 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies is designed to alter the country’s electoral landscape. He suggested the timing of the move is influenced by upcoming Assembly elections in key states, where women voters are expected to play a decisive role.
Gandhi maintained that the original Women’s Reservation Bill, passed earlier with broad political support, did not require linkage with delimitation. He contended that the current proposal introduces conditions that could disadvantage states which have effectively managed population growth, particularly in southern and northeastern regions.
According to him, the delimitation process, based on population data, risks shifting parliamentary representation in favour of northern states. This, he argued, could reduce the relative influence of regions that have stabilised population levels over time. He further alleged that the move reflects reluctance to share political power more equitably, especially with marginalised communities.
The Congress leader also criticised the proposal to expand the strength of the Lok Sabha significantly, questioning the necessity of increasing seats to implement women’s reservation instead of applying quotas within the existing framework.
Opposition parties have consistently raised concerns that the combined effect of delimitation and seat expansion could reshape political representation ahead of future general elections. Leaders from several states have echoed these apprehensions, warning of potential imbalances in federal representation.
The government, however, has rejected these claims, maintaining that delimitation is essential to implement the reservation policy and ensure fair representation. It has also assured that no state will face any disadvantage as a result of the exercise, setting the stage for continued debate over the proposed reforms.
