Core Context
- Post-2026 Lok Sabha delimitation may reduce the relative representation of southern States due to population-based seat allocation, despite successful population control, raising concerns over federal balance and political equity.
Delimitation
- Process of readjusting constituencies and seat allocation of Lok Sabha and State Assemblies
- Objective: Equal representation (one person, one vote, one value)
- Nature: Statutory body
Constitutional basis
- Article 82 – Lok Sabha
- Article 170 – State Legislative Assemblies
Freeze on Delimitation
- 42nd Amendment (1976): Freeze till 2000
- 84th Amendment (2001): Extended till first Census after 2026
Present Concern (Post-2026)
- Higher population growth in northern States
Possible outcomes
- Loss of seats for southern States
- Rewarding higher fertility
Suggested Correctives
- Increase total Lok Sabha seats (no State loses seats)
- Balance population with population-control performance
- Apply Digressive Proportionality (EU Parliament model)
