Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha on Thursday expressed support for the upcoming delimitation exercise, stating that it is acceptable if some states lose parliamentary seats in the process. She also proposed granting the Rajya Sabha powers akin to the US Senate to ensure regional representation and balance.
Kavitha's Stance on Delimitation
Speaking to reporters in Hyderabad, Kavitha said, "Delimitation is a necessary exercise to reflect population changes. If some states gain or lose seats, it should not be a cause for concern. The focus should be on ensuring fair representation for all regions." Her remarks come amid concerns from southern states that they might lose seats due to slower population growth compared to northern states.
Proposal for Rajya Sabha Reform
Kavitha suggested restructuring the Rajya Sabha to function like the US Senate, where each state has equal representation regardless of population. "The Rajya Sabha should be given more powers to protect the interests of smaller states. This would ensure that states with fewer Lok Sabha seats still have a strong voice in Parliament," she explained.
She emphasized that such a reform would address the anxieties of states that fear being marginalized after delimitation. "We need a bicameral system that balances population-based representation in the Lok Sabha with equal state representation in the Rajya Sabha," Kavitha added.
Political Reactions
Kavitha's statements have sparked debate among political parties. While some southern leaders have expressed apprehension about losing seats, others have welcomed her proposal for Rajya Sabha reforms. The BRS leader urged the central government to initiate a dialogue on the issue and consider constitutional amendments if necessary.
The delimitation exercise, which is expected after the next census, has been a contentious topic, with several states demanding safeguards to prevent a reduction in their political influence. Kavitha's proposal aims to create a middle ground by strengthening the upper house.
