Date : 27/06/2023
Relevance : GS Paper 2 : Constitutional & Non Constitutional Body - Delimitation Commission
Key Words : Election Commission, Census, constituencies, Finance Commission
Context -
- The Election Commission recently released a draft delimitation document for Assam, suggesting modifications to the boundaries of several Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies. However, the proposal has sparked protests and controversies in the state.
Delimitation and its Purpose:
- Delimitation means redrawing boundaries of parliamentary and assembly seats to reflect changes in population.
- The objective is to ensure equal representation for population segments and prevent any political party from gaining an unfair advantage.
- In Assam, delimitation was deferred in 2008 due to security concerns and was officially revived in 2020 based on the 2001 Census data.
Highlights of the Proposal:
- While the number of seats remains the same (126 Assembly and 14 Lok Sabha), the draft suggests changes in geographical boundaries and an increase in reserved constituencies for Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC).
Key highlights include:
- Increased Reserved Seats: SC assembly seats increased from 8 to 9, and ST assembly seats increased from 16 to 19.
- More Seats for Districts with Autonomous Councils: One assembly seat increased in West Karbi Anglong District, and three assembly seats increased in the Bodo Territorial Region.
- Nomenclature Change: Kaliabor Lok Sabha constituency renamed as 'Kaziranga.'
Process and Controversies:
- The constituencies were delimited based on the 2001 Census data, while considering the suggestions of political parties and organizations.
- However, the draft has faced allegations of being partisan and divisive. Opponents, particularly the AIUDF representing Bengali-origin Muslims, argue that the proposal divides voters along religious lines and disadvantages their community politically.
- They claim that Muslim-majority areas have been merged with Hindu-majority populations, reducing the number of constituencies where Muslim legislators can be elected.
The Role and Challenges of the Delimitation Commission in India
- The Delimitation Commission: An Authoritative Body with Binding Decisions The Delimitation Commission plays a crucial role in determining the number and boundaries of constituencies. Its decisions have far-reaching implications for fair representation and equitable distribution of political power.
Responsibilities of the Delimitation Commission:
- Determining the Number and Boundaries of Constituencies : The Delimitation Commission is tasked with the responsibility of demarcating the boundaries of constituencies. It carefully considers population data and strives to ensure an equal number of people in each constituency, thereby maintaining the principle of 'one person, one vote.'
- Ensuring Equal Population Representation in Each Seat ; The commission aims to achieve equitable representation by balancing the population of each seat. Through a meticulous analysis of census data, it determines constituency boundaries that minimize disparities in population size, ensuring that every vote carries equal weight.
- Designating Reserved Seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes ; To empower marginalized communities, the Delimitation Commission identifies areas with a significant population of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. It reserves certain seats exclusively for these communities, fostering their political representation and ensuring their voices are heard.
- Resolving Disagreements through Majority Decisions : The Delimitation Commission consists of multiple members, and in case of differences of opinion, the decision of the majority prevails. This mechanism ensures that decisions are made collectively and reflects a democratic approach.
Public Participation in the Delimitation Process:
- Draft Proposals: Publication and Review
- Open Meetings: Engaging the Public
- Amendments: Adapting the Proposal as Needed
- The commission takes into account the feedback received during public consultations and carefully considers the validity of the concerns raised. If deemed necessary, amendments are made to the draft proposals, ensuring that the final decision reflects the collective inputs of both the commission members and the public.
Significance of the Delimitation Commission:
Independent Body: Separation from Executive and Political Parties
- The Delimitation Commission operates independently of the executive branch and political parties, ensuring its impartiality and non-partisan nature. This independence is crucial for the credibility and integrity of the delimitation process.
Finality of Decisions: No Scope for Court or Legislative Review
- Once the Delimitation Commission issues its final order, its decisions are considered binding and cannot be challenged in court or overturned through legislative means. This ensures stability and avoids unnecessary disputes regarding constituency boundaries.
Equitable Distribution: Ensuring Fair Population Representation
- The commission's focus on equal population representation in constituencies helps prevent disparities and ensures that every vote has an equal impact. It enhances the democratic fabric of the country by promoting fair representation and preventing concentration of power.
Reliance on Census Data: Basis for Decision Making
- The Delimitation Commission bases its decisions on the most recent census data. By using reliable and accurate demographic information, it ensures that constituency boundaries are redraw
Conclusion:
The Assam delimitation draft proposes changes to constituency boundaries, leading to protests and controversies. While some groups welcome the proposal for securing the representation of certain communities, others, particularly the Bengali-origin Muslim community, argue that it marginalizes them politically. The final outcome and its implications will unfold after considering objections, conducting public hearings, and making necessary revisions to the draft.
Probable Questions for Mains Exam -
- What is the role of the Delimitation Commission in India? Discuss its responsibilities and significance in ensuring fair representation. (10 Marks,150 Words)
- Evaluate the role of the Delimitation Commission in promoting equitable distribution and preventing concentration of political power. Discuss its impact on maintaining the principle of 'one person, one vote' in a democratic society. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
Source : The Indian Express
