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All India PT Mock Test 2025 (OMR Based)
7th March 2025 (11 Topics)

Don’t make delimitation North vs South

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Context

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reignited the debate on delimitation by calling for an extension of the 1971 Census-based framework for another 30 years beyond 2026. His move reflects a broader pushback by southern states against perceived dominance by the North and BJP-led central policies. The issue is gaining prominence amid the BJP’s expansion efforts in the South and concerns over federal representation.

Political and Regional Dimensions

  • Stalin’s Push for Southern Interests – Tamil Nadu’s resolution argues that states controlling their population should not be penalized in political representation.
  • BJP’s Expansion Strategy – The party’s growing influence in the South complicates the North-South binary, leading to internal recalibrations.
  • Framing of the Debate – The discourse is shaped by concerns over Hindutva’s impact, federal power struggles, and the balance between representation and governance.

Constitutional and Governance Perspectives

  • Complexity Beyond Numbers – Arguments of the South being “better developed” ignore historical, political, and policy factors contributing to regional differences.
  • Representation vs Federalism – While the principle of one-person-one-vote is fundamental, constitutional provisions also protect federal structures and minority rights.
  • Past Precedents – Delimitation has been postponed before, but a long-term solution requires structured negotiations rather than temporary extensions.

The Path Forward

  • Need for Cooperative Federalism – The issue should be resolved through inclusive dialogue rather than unilateral central decisions.
  • Stake of All Political Entities – Every party and citizen is affected, as delimitation shapes the democratic foundation of fair representation.
  • Beyond Immediate Politics – A sustainable approach must balance representation, governance, and regional interests without deepening divisions.
Practice Question

Q. Discuss the implications of the upcoming delimitation exercise on federalism and political representation in India. How can a balance be achieved between demographic shifts and equitable governance? (250 words)

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