Kerala CM Criticizes Centre's Delimitation Bill, Warns of Threat to Federalism

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condemned the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill, arguing it undermines India's federal structure. Vijayan warned the legislation aims to boost representation for northern states in the Lok Sabha, penalizing states focused on population control. He criticized using women's reservation as a guise for political dominance.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has expressed strong opposition to the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill, criticizing it for potentially destabilizing the federal framework of India. In a recent statement, Vijayan suggested the legislation seeks to exploit the population advantage of northern states, potentially enhancing their representation in the Lok Sabha.

The Chief Minister highlighted concerns that states advancing in population control and public welfare, such as Kerala, would suffer reduced representation. He described the bill as a 'double standard,' penalizing states adhering to family planning policies while rewarding those that have not.

Vijayan further accused the central government of using women's reservation as a facade to entrench political power. While acknowledging the importance of women's representation, he insisted that true democracy requires justice and balanced representation. He urged the Centre to retract this perceived anti-democratic move.

(With inputs from agencies.)