In an unusual display of agreement within the divided INDIA bloc, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge expressed opposition to the government’s proposed delimitation bill during a special Parliament session. Kharge emphasized the opposition’s support for women’s reservation but criticized the government’s approach in pushing the constitution amendment bills for 33% reservation for women in Parliament.
Speaking after an opposition meeting, Kharge raised concerns about the government’s handling of the bills and its motives, stating that they would oppose the delimitation bill. This stance sets the stage for another confrontation between the NDA and INDIA bloc in the Lok Sabha.
The opposition’s strategy session, hosted at Kharge’s residence and attended by various parties such as AAP, RJD, TMC, and DMK, serves as a morale boost for the Congress. Kharge condemned the government’s actions as an attempt to stifle opposition voices.
During the three-day session, the government plans to introduce three amendment bills to enable the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill passed in 2023. The focal point of contention lies in the Delimitation Bill, which grants the Centre authority to establish a commission for constituency boundary redrawing based on the latest Census data.
The proposed Constitution (131st) Bill seeks to increase the Lok Sabha’s total seats to 850, with 273 seats earmarked for women. Originally slated for implementation based on the 2027 Census, the government now aims to expedite the process before the 2029 elections, using 2011 Census data for delimitation. This accelerated timeline is a key opposition grievance, advocating for postponing the exercise until the 2021 Census figures are available.
Kharge and Congress secretary KC Venugopal accused the BJP of manipulating delimitation proceedings. They affirmed the opposition’s intention to vote against the delimitation exercise and reject the bill, aligning with Kharge’s assertions against the government’s tactics in handling the legislative agenda.