Gehlot Warns of Southern States' Unease Over Delimitation

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot urged Prime Minister Modi to address the concerns of southern states regarding delimitation. Gehlot warned that neglect could spark sensitivity issues. He pointed out the growing skepticism towards the BJP's approach, especially with regard to women's reservation and legislative processes linked to delimitation.

At a press conference in Jaipur, former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot cautioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seriously consider the concerns voiced by southern states over delimitation. Gehlot emphasized that if the discontent goes unaddressed, it could evolve into a sensitive issue.

The apprehensions surfacing from southern leaders indicate a growing sense of unease, according to Gehlot, who referenced Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin's remarks as evidence of the concerns' gravity. The Congress leader underscored the historical context, drawing parallels to the unrest seen in the 1950s and 60s.

Further discussing the linked issue of women's reservation, Gehlot questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government's handling of the matter, particularly the use of outdated Census data for delimitation. He criticized the government's timing of the parliamentary session amid state elections, suggesting that it reflected questionable intent.

(With inputs from agencies.)