Delimitation Bill Threatens Constitutional Balance, Warns Congress Leader Venugopal

Congress general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal has said that the proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill on delimitation is not just an issue for the INDIA bloc but a matter that affects the entire constitutional framework of India. In an interview ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Venugopal expressed concern over the BJP's push for the Bill, describing it as part of an anti-Constitutional agenda.

Venugopal emphasised that delimitation is a national issue that undermines federalism and democratic representation if altered without due process. He called on the government to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the Bill, rather than holding individual consultations. The Congress leader stated that his party opposes any attempt to give the executive sweeping powers over delimitation through a constitutional amendment.

On the changing composition of the Opposition, with several MPs from the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) moving to the NDA, Venugopal said the seating arrangement does not change the character of Parliament or the Opposition's resolve. He accused the BJP of trying to divide Opposition parties to facilitate its legislative agenda.

Venugopal also raised concerns about repeated examination paper leaks, saying students and parents have lost faith in the system. He demanded accountability from the Education Minister. Other issues the Opposition plans to raise include concerns over the use of ethanol in fuel.

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill seeks to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha and redraw constituency boundaries based on population, which has sparked fears among southern states that they may lose representation. Venugopal expressed confidence that parties like the DMK, which prioritise Tamil Nadu's interests, will not support the Bill.