DMK open to rethink on Lok Sabha delimitation bill if southern states not harmed
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
DMK, a key regional party with 22 MPs, has confirmed it is open to revisiting its stance on the delimitation bill if southern states' interests are protected. This comes after the party previously opposed a similar bill, which was defeated. The shift could impact the bill's passage in Parliament.
Background
Delimitation involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies based on population. Southern states fear losing representation as their population growth is slower. A constitutional amendment bill to raise Lok Sabha strength was defeated in the last session due to opposition from INDIA bloc, of which DMK was a part. DMK has since left the bloc after its ally Congress allied with rival TVK in Tamil Nadu.
Key facts
DMK has 22 MPs in Lok Sabha and is open to negotiation on the delimitation bill.
Senior DMK functionary Tiruchi Siva said the party will spell out its stand after the government brings the bill.
DMK insists southern states' representation in Parliament must not be adversely affected.
A similar constitutional amendment bill was defeated in the last Parliament session as opposition denied two-thirds majority.
DMK was part of INDIA bloc during the previous protest but is no longer in the alliance.
DMK's ally Congress joined hands with actor Vijay-led TVK, which defeated DMK in Tamil Nadu assembly polls.
Home Minister Amit Shah had assured that a bill will be brought; DMK awaits its details.
DMK refused to comment on hypothetical scenarios like a 50% seat increase across all states.
Prelims pointers
- Delimitation: redrawing of Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies based on population.
- Constitutional amendment bill requires two-thirds majority in each House.
- DMK: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, regional party in Tamil Nadu.
- INDIA bloc: opposition coalition formed in 2023.
- TVK: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, party led by actor Vijay.
Mains angles
- Discuss the implications of delimitation on federal balance and southern states' representation.
- Analyze the political realignments in Tamil Nadu and their impact on national politics.
- Critically examine the role of regional parties in constitutional amendments.