The ‘hybrid model for delimitation’ proposed by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy emerged as the central point of contention in Parliament, triggering a sharp political exchange between the BJP and the Congress, even as the idea gains traction among several southern States.
The model, put forward by Mr. Revanth Reddy, seeks to balance population-based representation with economic performance indicators such as Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) as one of the parameters for delimitation. The suggestion entered the national discourse, particularly amid concerns among southern States over potential loss of parliamentary representation.
Sensing the growing resonance of the argument, the BJP moved to counter it strongly in Parliament. Party MP Tejasvi Surya led the charge, dismissing the hybrid model as “foolish” and lacking any substantive basis. He argued that economic indicators like GSDP are too volatile to be used as a criterion for delimitation.
In his remarks, Mr. Surya questioned whether parliamentary seats would need constant revision if economic metrics fluctuate, overlooking the fact that delimitation exercises are conducted roughly once in 25 years. He further attempted to challenge the premise by raising hypothetical scenarios like industrialists like Mukesh Ambani would get one lakh votes compared to a poor man if Mr. Revanth Reddy’s arguments are taken.
