Chidambaram Accuses Modi Government of Misleading Public on Women's Reservation and Delimitation
In a sharp critique delivered in Sivaganga, former Union minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram launched a forceful attack on the Union government on Friday. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of promoting "half-truths" and false narratives concerning the women's reservation and delimitation bills currently under discussion.
Women's Reservation Already Legally Finalized in 2023, Says Chidambaram
Chidambaram emphasized that the reservation for women in Parliament was not a new initiative but had been legally finalized in September 2023 through the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act. This legislation mandates that 181 out of 543 Lok Sabha seats be reserved for women, a fact he stressed was settled by Parliament 30 months ago.
He asserted that the government is spreading misleading information by portraying women's reservation as a recent development, when in reality, the current legislative actions merely implement a law already passed. The recent introduction of constitutional amendment and delimitation bills in the Lok Sabha is being misrepresented, according to Chidambaram, to create a false sense of novelty around women's empowerment measures.
Delimitation Bill Will Reduce Tamil Nadu's Seats, Not Increase Them
Chidambaram further challenged claims that Tamil Nadu's parliamentary seats would increase from 39 to 58 under the constitutional amendment. He explained that this projection is an illusion because seat allocation under the Delimitation Act is strictly based on population data.
The delimitation commission will assign seats according to the 2021 or 2026 census, which would actually result in Tamil Nadu's representation dropping from the projected 58 to just 47 seats due to population metrics, he clarified. This reduction highlights potential negative impacts on the state's political influence in national affairs.
Criticism of AIADMK and Praise for Opposition Unity
Chidambaram also questioned AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami's (EPS) support for the delimitation law, suggesting it stems from ignorance or fear. He advised EPS to thoroughly study the law and consult with legal experts before endorsing it, implying that such support could harm Tamil Nadu's interests.
On a positive note, Chidambaram appreciated and thanked TVK chief Vijay for voicing opposition to the delimitation bill. He noted that Chief Minister M K Stalin is handling the matter with firm resolve and suggested that if other opposition leaders unite against the bill, it could be defeated in Parliament.
This call for opposition unity underscores the political tensions surrounding the delimitation issue, with Chidambaram positioning the Congress party as a defender of factual accuracy and regional interests against what he views as government misinformation.
