The Indian Census, originally scheduled for 2021, was postponed due to COVID-19, and the nation accepted this reason without question. However, even after five years, there is no indication of conducting the Census. The real reason lies elsewhere.
The Modi-Shah strategy appears to be aimed at maintaining the seat distribution, which benefits the Hindi belt. Avoiding a Census allows the existing political arrangement to continue without disruption, favoring BJP’s electoral calculations.
Union Minister Amit Shah claims that no state will lose seats, dismissing concerns as politically motivated.
However, the issue is not about losing seats but about the imbalance in seat allocation. If Parliament seats are increased to 848 after the 2026 Census, South Indian states would receive only 164 seats, while North Indian states, where BJP has a stronghold, would dominate with 684 seats.
This stark disparity arises despite the South effectively implementing population control measures, unlike the North, where illiteracy has led to higher population growth.
The current political strength in Parliament benefits the South with financial support and policy decisions. However, post-redistribution, South India risks losing political relevance and funds.
This is not just a political issue but a long-term regional imbalance that all parties must address with foresight rather than self-interest. The need for fair representation remains critical for the future of Indian democracy.
Otherwise, South India would end up like Northeast India, which holds little political relevance in national politics.
Usha Chowdhary
