Shashi Tharoor Raises Concerns Over Delimitation in Women's Reservation Bill

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor voiced apprehensions about linking delimitation with women's reservation, urging broader consultation, especially with southern states. He criticized the timing of the legislation, warning against the potential impact on national unity. Opposition parties support women's reservation but oppose delimitation, as recent bills passed Lok Sabha.

In a significant political development, Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has expressed concerns regarding the provision that links delimitation with the Women's Reservation Bill. Tharoor advocates for a comprehensive consultation on this issue, emphasizing the need to engage southern and smaller states in the discussion.

Tharoor questioned the timing and motivation behind the legislation, arguing that if the government was committed to women's reservation alone, it could have been enacted in 2023 without the need for delimitation. He emphasized that addressing delimitation is critical for maintaining the country's unity, calling for dialogue with regions like South India, the Northeast, and Goa.

The Lok Sabha recently considered the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Delimitation Bill, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought unanimous support, but the opposition remains divided, favoring women's reservation but rejecting the delimitation proposal. The bills were passed by majority in an April special sitting of Parliament.

(With inputs from agencies.)