Relevance: APPSC – Andhra Pradesh Specific (Polity, Political Parties, Women Empowerment, Representation)
For Prelims:
Byreddy Shabari, Telugu Desam Party, Nandyal, National General Secretary, Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment, 2023), Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, Articles 325, 326, 84, 173, 243D, 243T, Representation of the People Act, 1951
For Mains:
Women in Politics, Political Representation, Gender Equality, Party Organisation, Constitutional Framework, Democratic Inclusion
Why in News?
Byreddy Shabari has been appointed as the first woman National General Secretary of the Telugu Desam Party. This development is significant as it reflects the increasing recognition of women’s leadership within political party structures and aligns with the broader national focus on enhancing women’s political participation.
Key Facts from the Development
- Byreddy Shabari, who represents Nandyal constituency in the Lok Sabha, has become the first woman to occupy the position of National General Secretary in the party.
- She is a first-time Member of Parliament and is currently serving as the Deputy Floor Leader of the party in the Lok Sabha.
- she has actively represented party positions in parliamentary debates.
- The appointment has taken place at a time when discussions regarding the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment, 2023) are gaining prominence.
- This provides an important political and institutional context to the development.
Background
- Political parties play a central role in democratic systems, as they serve as the primary vehicles for representation, leadership selection, and policy articulation.
- Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, women’s representation in leadership positions within political parties has historically been limited.
- The appointment of a woman leader to a senior organisational position represents a shift towards greater inclusiveness within party structures.
- It also reflects the growing emphasis on gender equality in political representation.
Women’s Political Participation in India
- Women’s participation in politics encompasses multiple dimensions, including voting, contesting elections, holding public office, and participating in policy-making processes.
- It is a critical component of democratic governance, as it ensures that diverse perspectives are represented in decision-making.
- At the global level, women’s representation in legislatures has shown gradual improvement. According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, women held approximately 26.9% of parliamentary seats worldwide in 2023.
- However, there are significant regional variations, with some countries achieving much higher levels of representation.
- In India, women have enjoyed equal voting rights since independence, but their representation in legislative bodies has increased slowly over time. In the Lok Sabha, women constitute around 13–14% of members as of recent elections.
- While this reflects progress compared to earlier decades, it still indicates a considerable gap in representation.
- At the local level, however, women’s participation is significantly higher due to reservation policies introduced through constitutional amendments
- Women now occupy a substantial proportion of seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions Part IX of the Constitution (Articles 243 to 243-O) and urban local bodies.
Constitutional and Legal Framework
- The Constitution of India provides a strong foundation for political equality and participation.
- Articles 325 and 326 ensure that no individual is excluded from electoral rolls on the basis of sex and that all adult citizens have the right to vote under the principle of universal adult franchise.
- Articles 84 and 173 lay down the qualifications required for contesting elections to Parliament and State Legislatures, thereby ensuring equal eligibility for men and women.
- The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments marked a significant milestone by introducing reservation of one-third of seats for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies. This has led to a substantial increase in women’s participation at the grassroots level.
- The Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment, 2023), also known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, represents a major step towards improving women’s representation in higher legislative bodies.
- It provides for 33% reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, including within seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- However, its implementation is linked to the completion of the next Census and delimitation exercise.
Institutional Measures and Election-Related Initiatives
- The Election Commission of India has taken several initiatives to promote women’s participation in the electoral process.
- These include the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme, which aims to increase voter awareness and participation.
- The Commission has also introduced women-friendly measures such as “pink polling booths,” where the entire polling staff is composed of women, thereby encouraging greater participation and confidence among female voters.
- Institutions such as the National Commission for Women also play a role in promoting gender equality and supporting women’s participation in public life.
Challenges Faced by Women in Politics
- Despite various measures, women continue to face multiple challenges in political participation.
- Social and cultural norms often restrict women’s involvement in public life, while financial constraints make it difficult for many women to contest elections.
- Political parties may not provide adequate opportunities for women to occupy leadership positions, limiting their representation at higher levels.
- Women also face issues such as political violence, intimidation, and online harassment, which can discourage active participation.
Significance for Andhra Pradesh
- The appointment of Byreddy Shabari to a senior leadership position reflects a broader trend towards greater inclusion of women in the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh.
- It highlights the increasing role of women leaders in shaping political discourse and organisational structures within the State.
- Such developments are likely to encourage more women to participate in politics and contribute to strengthening democratic representation.
Way Forward
- Political parties need to ensure greater inclusion of women in leadership roles and candidate selection processes.
- Effective implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act will be a critical step in improving representation at higher levels.
- There is also a need for capacity-building initiatives, financial support mechanisms, and institutional safeguards to address the barriers faced by women in politics.
- Creating a supportive environment for women’s participation will contribute to more inclusive and representative governance.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to women’s political representation in India, consider the following statements:
- Article 243D provides for reservation of women in Panchayats.
- Article 325 prohibits discrimination in electoral rolls on the basis of sex.
- The Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment) has already been implemented.
- Articles 84 and 173 relate to qualifications for contesting elections.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Article 243D of the Constitution provides for reservation of not less than one-third of seats for women in Panchayats, including reservation for women belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This provision was introduced through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 to promote grassroots political participation of women.
Statement 2 is correct: Article 325 ensures that no person shall be excluded from electoral rolls on grounds of religion, race, caste, or sex. This guarantees universal and non-discriminatory electoral inclusion, forming the foundation of equal political rights in India.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023) has been passed, but it has not yet been implemented. Its enforcement is contingent upon the completion of the next Census and subsequent delimitation exercise, making it operationally deferred.
Statement 4 is correct: Articles 84 and 173 deal with the qualifications for membership of Parliament and State Legislatures respectively. They lay down conditions such as citizenship, minimum age, and other eligibility requirements necessary to contest elections.
Q.Consider the following statements regarding the Women’s Reservation Act:
- It also provides reservation for women in the Rajya Sabha.
- Within the reserved seats, provision is made for SC/ST women.
- The reservation is intended to be permanent in nature.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Act does not provide reservation in the Rajya Sabha or State Legislative Councils; it is limited to Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.
Statement 2 is correct: The Act ensures sub-reservation for SC/ST women within the overall 33% quota, maintaining existing reservation principles.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The reservation is not permanent; it is proposed for a limited duration (15 years), subject to extension by Parliament
Q. Which one of the following provisions in the Constitution of India directly ensures that women cannot be excluded from electoral rolls on the basis of sex?
(a) Article 14
(b) Article 15
(c) Article 325
(d) Article 326
Ans: (c)
Explanation: Article 325 specifically provides that no person shall be ineligible for inclusion in electoral rolls on grounds of religion, race, caste, or sex, thereby ensuring equal political participation.
Q. The reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha, as provided by the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act, will come into effect after:
(a) Passage of a Parliamentary resolution
(b) Notification by the Election Commission
(c) Completion of Census followed by delimitation
(d) Ratification by at least half of the State Legislatures
Ans: (c)
Explanation: The Act clearly states that reservation will be implemented only after the next Census and subsequent delimitation exercise, making it conditional and not immediate.
MAINS QUESTION
Q.Discuss the status of women’s political representation in India in the context of the Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment).
Word Limit: 250 words
FAQs
Q1. What is the Women’s Reservation Act (106th Constitutional Amendment, 2023)?
Ans:t provides for 33% reservation of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, including within SC/ST reserved seats. Its implementation is linked to the next Census and delimitation process.
Q2. Which Articles ensure political equality for women in India?
Ans: Articles 325 and 326 ensure universal voting rights and prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex.
Q3. Which Constitutional provisions provide reservation for women in local bodies?
Ans: Article 243D → Panchayats
Article 243T → Municipalities
Q4. What is meant by proxy representation?
Ans: It refers to situations where elected women representatives are controlled by male family members, especially at the local level.
Q5. What is the current status of women’s representation in Lok Sabha?
Ans: Women constitute approximately 13–14% of members, indicating gradual but limited progress.
GS Paper II – Polity & Governance
For Prelims:
Delimitation Commission, Delimitation Act, Article 82, Article 170, Article 81, Census, Schedule in legislation
For Mains:
Federal balance, proportional representation, demographic neutrality, electoral restructuring, political equity
Why in News?
The Union Government is planning to introduce a legislative “schedule” specifying State-wise Lok Sabha seats as part of a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census, while ensuring that the proportional share of each State remains unchanged.
Core Proposal and Its Significance
- The proposal seeks to expand the Lok Sabha strength by nearly 50 percent while maintaining the percentage share of each State.
- This approach ensures that representation increases in absolute terms without disturbing the existing inter-State balance of power, thereby addressing concerns of regional inequality and federal tensions.
What is the ‘Schedule’ Mechanism
- A schedule in legislation provides detailed numerical data that supplements the main provisions of the law.
- In this context, it will list the exact number of Lok Sabha seats allocated to each State, ensuring clarity, transparency, and uniform implementation of seat distribution.
Constitutional and Legal Context
- Delimitation is governed by Article 82, which mandates readjustment of Lok Sabha seats after every Census through parliamentary law. Article 170 similarly governs State Assembly constituencies.
- Article 81 defines the composition of the Lok Sabha and provides the principle of proportional representation of States based on population.
Delimitation Acts and Commissions
Delimitation in India has been carried out through specific parliamentary laws known as Delimitation Acts, which provide the legal framework for constituting the Delimitation Commission.
- The Delimitation Commission has been constituted four times in India — in 1952, 1963, 1973, and 2002 — following the respective Census exercises.
- The Delimitation Act, 2002 led to the most recent delimitation exercise, which was completed in 2008 based on the 2001 Census.
- The Commission is a high-powered independent body appointed by the President and typically consists of a retired Supreme Court judge as Chairperson, the Chief Election Commissioner, and the State Election Commissioners of the concerned States.
- The Commission’s orders have the force of law and cannot be challenged in any court, which ensures finality and prevents prolonged litigation.
- The Commission also determines the reservation of constituencies for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in proportion to their population.
- Although its orders are laid before Parliament, they do not require parliamentary approval, making the process largely insulated from political interference.
This institutional design is intended to ensure neutrality, uniformity, and credibility in the delimitation process.
• Delimitation Commission is a statutory body constituted under the Delimitation Act • It has been set up in 1952, 1963, 1973, and 2002 • The latest delimitation (2008) was based on the 2001 Census • Orders of the Commission have the force of law and cannot be challenged in court • Article 82 → Delimitation after Census • Article 170 → State Assembly delimitation • Article 81 → Composition of Lok Sabha • 42nd Amendment (1976) → Freeze based on 1971 Census • 84th Amendment (2001) → Freeze extended till after 2026 • 87th Amendment (2003) → Allowed delimitation based on 2001 Census without altering seat numbers. |
Change in Approach: Share vs Absolute Seats
- Traditionally, delimitation redistributes seats based on population changes, which alters the relative share of States.
- The current proposal departs from this model by increasing total seats while maintaining existing proportional shares.
- This approach allows demographic changes to be accommodated without altering the balance of political representation among States.
Implications for Regional Balance
- The proposal directly addresses concerns of southern States that feared loss of representation under a purely population-based redistribution.
- By maintaining proportional share, States with lower population growth retain their political influence, while States with higher growth benefit through increased absolute representation.
- This reduces the risk of regional imbalance and political contestation.
Link with Census and Women’s Reservation
- The delimitation exercise is proposed to be based on the 2011 Census due to delays in the latest Census.
- Simultaneously, the expansion of Lok Sabha seats is linked with the implementation of 33 percent reservation for women, as it allows reserved seats to be introduced without significantly reducing general seats.
Key Constitutional Principle Involved
- The principle of “one person, one vote, one value” requires equal representation based on population.
- However, India’s constitutional practice balances this with federal equity, ensuring that States are not penalised for demographic success.
- The current proposal represents a hybrid approach that attempts to reconcile these competing principles.
Way Forward
- Institutional dialogue with States is essential to ensure legitimacy and acceptance of delimitation reforms.
- Clear guidelines regarding future delimitation cycles and population benchmarks should be established to avoid recurring disputes.
- A balanced approach is required to align democratic representation with federal stability.
Conclusion
The proposed delimitation model reflects an attempt to modernise representation without destabilising India’s federal structure. By expanding seats while preserving proportional shares, it seeks to balance demographic realities with political equity.
Its long-term success will depend on transparency, consultation, and adherence to constitutional principles.
CARE MCQ
Q.With reference to delimitation in India, consider the following statements:
- The Delimitation Commission is constituted under a law passed by Parliament.
- Its orders require approval of Parliament before coming into force.
- It determines reservation of constituencies for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: The Delimitation Commission is constituted under a Delimitation Act passed by Parliament (e.g., Delimitation Act, 2002). Article 82 empowers Parliament to enact such a law after every Census.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The orders of the Delimitation Commission do not require approval of Parliament. Once finalized, they have the force of law and come into effect as notified, and cannot be modified by Parliament or challenged in courts (Article 329).
Statement 3 is correct: The Commission is responsible for identifying and allocating constituencies reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, based on their population in different regions, ensuring fair political representation.
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Territorial Constituencies for Lok Sabha elections in India:
- The Delimitation Commission, appointed by the President of India, is responsible for readjusting the boundaries of Lok Sabha constituencies.
- The allocation of Lok Sabha seats for each state is strictly proportional to its population relative to the total population of India.
- The formation of constituencies aims to ensure that each elected member of the Lok Sabha represents a roughly equal population.
- The President of India can nominate two members of the Anglo-Indian community to the Lok Sabha if they are deemed inadequately represented.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Ans: (d)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct:The Delimitation Commission, set up by the President under a Parliamentary law, is responsible for redrawing the boundaries of Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies. Its orders have the force of law and cannot be challenged in courts.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Although seat allocation is broadly based on population, it is not strictly proportional in practice. Constitutional provisions and amendments (like the freeze based on the 1971 Census until 2026) mean that exact proportionality is not followed across states.
Statement 3 is correct: One of the core principles of delimitation is equal representation, meaning each constituency should have, as far as practicable, a similar population size, ensuring fairness in democratic representation.
Statement 4 is correct: Article 331 originally empowered the President to nominate up to two Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha if the community was not adequately represented. (Note: This provision has been discontinued by the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019, but the statement reflects the original constitutional provision.)
Q. Which Article bars courts from questioning delimitation laws?
(a) Article 226
(b) Article 329
(c) Article 246
(d) Article 324
Ans: (b)
Explanation: Article 329 bars courts from interfering in matters related to delimitation of constituencies and allotment of seats, ensuring that the electoral process is not delayed by judicial intervention.
Q. With reference to constitutional provisions relating to delimitation and elections, consider the following statements:
- Article 82 provides for readjustment of seats in the Lok Sabha after each Census.
- Article 170 deals with delimitation of State Legislative Assembly constituencies.
- Judicial review is permitted against delimitation orders once elections are notified.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Article 82 empowers Parliament to enact a Delimitation Act after every Census for readjustment of Lok Sabha seats.
Statement 2 is correct: Article 170 deals with composition and readjustment of State Assembly constituencies based on population.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Under Article 329, delimitation orders cannot be challenged in courts, ensuring the electoral process is not disrupted.
MAINS QUESTION
Q. “The proposal to maintain the existing state-wise share in the Lok Sabha during the next delimitation exercise seeks to balance federal representation with population realities.”
Discuss the rationale behind this proposal. Also examine its implications for Indian federalism and democratic representation. (250 words)
[250 WORDS]
FAQs
Q. What is the role of the Delimitation Commission?
It redraws constituency boundaries and allocates seats based on Census data, ensuring equal representation.
Q.Why are its decisions final?
To prevent prolonged legal disputes and ensure timely implementation of electoral boundaries.
Q.How many times has delimitation been conducted in India?
Four times — 1952, 1963, 1973, and 2002.
Q.Why was seat allocation frozen?
To avoid penalising States that successfully implemented population control policies.
Q.What is the key issue for UPSC?
Balancing population-based representation with federal equity in India’s electoral system.
Relevance: GS Paper II – Polity & Governance
For Prelims:
Article 81, Article 82, Delimitation Commission, 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill, Joint Sitting, Council of Ministers limit, Women’s Reservation
For Mains:
Representation imbalance, federal restructuring, legislative dominance, demographic redistribution, parliamentary efficiency
Why in News?
The Union Government has introduced the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill proposing to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to 850 seats, along with a Delimitation Bill based on the 2011 Census and provisions to implement one-third reservation for women.
Proposal to Expand Lok Sabha
- The proposal aims to increase the total strength of the Lok Sabha from the present 543 elected members to a maximum of 850 members, including 815 from States and 35 from Union Territories.
- This expansion seeks to address the widening gap between population size and representation, as the current seat allocation is still largely based on the 1971 Census.
Constitutional and Legal Changes Proposed
- The amendment seeks to modify Article 81, which deals with the composition of the Lok Sabha, and Article 82, which governs delimitation after every Census.
- It proposes removal of the freeze on seat allocation beyond 2026, allowing immediate redistribution based on the 2011 Census.
- It also modifies Article 334A to enable early implementation of women’s reservation without waiting for a future Census.
Composition of Lok Sabha
- Article 81 provides that the Lok Sabha shall consist of representatives of the people chosen by direct election from territorial constituencies in the States.
- The number of seats allocated to each State is based on population, ensuring proportional representation.
- The Constitution earlier allowed a maximum of 550 members, which included representatives from States and Union Territories.
- The freeze on seat redistribution was introduced through the 42nd Amendment (1976) and extended by the 84th Amendment (2001) to maintain federal balance despite unequal population growth.
Delimitation and Census
- The delimitation exercise redraws constituency boundaries and reallocates seats based on population changes.
- The current proposal links delimitation with the 2011 Census, bypassing the earlier requirement of waiting for the first Census after 2026.
- This creates a significant shift in representation, as demographic changes since 1971 will now directly influence seat allocation.
Impact on Federal Balance
- The increase in Lok Sabha seats based on population proportion is expected to benefit States with higher population growth such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
- Conversely, States that have successfully controlled population growth, such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, may see a reduction in their relative share of seats.
- This raises concerns about weakening the principle of cooperative federalism, as political power may increasingly concentrate in demographically larger States.
Impact on Rajya Sabha
- The Rajya Sabha’s strength remains unchanged, which alters the balance between the two Houses of Parliament.
- In joint sittings under Article 108, the Lok Sabha already has numerical superiority, but an expanded Lok Sabha would further strengthen its dominance.
- This may reduce the effective influence of the Rajya Sabha as a revising chamber, thereby weakening bicameral checks and balances.
Impact on Parliamentary Functioning
- An increase in the number of Members of Parliament may reduce the opportunity for individual MPs to participate in debates due to time constraints.
- Parliamentary discussions may become less effective unless supported by stronger committee systems and structured debate mechanisms.
- India already has relatively low referral of Bills to Parliamentary Committees compared to developed democracies, which may further strain legislative scrutiny.
Impact on Executive (Council of Ministers)
- Article 75 limits the size of the Council of Ministers to 15 percent of the total strength of the Lok Sabha.
- With an expanded Lok Sabha of 850 members, the maximum number of ministers could increase to around 122.
- This could lead to a larger executive, affecting governance efficiency and increasing the scope for political accommodation.
Way Forward
- A balanced delimitation approach that considers both population and federal equity is essential.
- Strengthening parliamentary committees and institutional capacity is necessary to manage a larger legislature effectively.
- Greater consultation with States is required to maintain trust and uphold the spirit of cooperative federalism.
Conclusion
The proposal to expand the Lok Sabha marks a significant shift in India’s parliamentary structure, aiming to align representation with demographic realities.
However, its implications extend beyond numbers, affecting federal balance, legislative functioning, and institutional stability.
A carefully calibrated approach is essential to ensure that democratic representation is enhanced without undermining constitutional equilibrium.
CARE MCQ
Q.With reference to the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats, consider the following statements:
- Increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha automatically increases the strength of the Rajya Sabha.
- The size of the Council of Ministers depends on the strength of the Lok Sabha.
- Delimitation of constituencies is carried out by an independent commission whose decisions have the force of law.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: The strength of the Rajya Sabha is not automatically linked to the Lok Sabha. It is governed separately under Article 80, and any change in its composition requires specific constitutional or legislative action, not a mere increase in Lok Sabha seats.
Statement 2 is correct: Under Article 75(1A), the size of the Council of Ministers is capped at 15% of the total strength of the Lok Sabha. Therefore, any increase in Lok Sabha membership can potentially increase the upper limit of the Council of Ministers.
Statement 3 is correct: Delimitation is carried out by an independent Delimitation Commission constituted under a Parliamentary law. Its orders have the force of law and are not subject to modification by Parliament or judicial review (as per Article 329).
Q.Consider the following statements regarding the constitutional provisions related to the Lok Sabha:
- Article 81 of the Constitution of India deals with the allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha among States.
- The readjustment of seats and territorial constituencies after each Census is provided under Article 82 of the Constitution of India.
- The allocation of seats to States in the Lok Sabha is independent of population considerations.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Article 81 of the Constitution of India deals with the composition of the Lok Sabha and the allocation of seats among States.
Important provisions of Article 81:
- Lok Sabha members are directly elected from territorial constituencies in the States.
• The number of seats allotted to each State is determined broadly in proportion to its population.
• The Constitution states that the ratio between population and number of seats should, as far as practicable, be the same for all States.
Statement 2 is correct: Article 82 of the Constitution of India provides for readjustment of Lok Sabha seats and delimitation of constituencies after every Census.
Key aspects:
- After every Census, Parliament enacts a Delimitation Act.
• A Delimitation Commission is then constituted.
• The Commission performs two tasks:
- Readjustment of the number of seats allotted to States
- Redrawing boundaries of parliamentary constituencies
Statement 3 is incorrect: This statement contradicts the basic principle of representation in the Lok Sabha.
Seat allocation is not independent of population. In fact:
- Population is the primary basis for allocating seats to States.
• Article 81 specifically requires population-based proportional representation.
Q.Consider the following statements regarding delimitation and representation in the Lok Sabha:
- The Constitution mandates that the allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha among States should be based on population so that the ratio between population and seats is, as far as practicable, the same for all States.
- The freeze on the readjustment of Lok Sabha seats among States was introduced by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act and later extended by the 84th Constitutional Amendment Act until the first Census after 2026.
- The Article 82 of the Constitution of India provides for the readjustment of parliamentary constituencies after every Census through a Delimitation Commission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Under Article 81 of the Constitution of India, the allocation of Lok Sabha seats aims to maintain population–seat parity across States as far as practicable.
- Statement 2 is correct: The freeze on seat redistribution was introduced by the 42nd Amendment (1976) and extended by the 84th Amendment (2001) until the first Census after 2026.
- Statement 3 is correct: Article 82 of the Constitution of India requires readjustment of seats and constituency boundaries after each Census through a Delimitation Commission.
Q.Consider the following statements regarding the constitutional and institutional implications of increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha:
- Increasing the size of the Lok Sabha would automatically increase the maximum permissible strength of the Union Council of Ministers.
- In the event of a joint sitting of Parliament, the expanded strength of the Lok Sabha would further increase its numerical advantage over the Rajya Sabha.
- The total strength of the Rajya Sabha must also increase proportionately if the strength of the Lok Sabha is expanded.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Under Article 75 of the Constitution of India, the Council of Ministers cannot exceed 15% of the total strength of the Lok Sabha. Hence, increasing Lok Sabha seats increases the maximum possible size of the executive.
- Statement 2 is correct: Joint sittings are provided under Article 108 of the Constitution of India, where voting is based on numerical strength, giving the Lok Sabha dominance that would grow further if its size increases.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The strength of the Rajya Sabha is governed separately under Article 80 of the Constitution of India and does not automatically change with Lok Sabha expansion.
CARE MAINS
Q.“Increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha has been suggested to improve democratic representation in India.”
Discuss the implications of increasing the size of the Lok Sabha for governance, federal balance and parliamentary functioning. [250 WORDS]
FAQs
Q. Why is increasing Lok Sabha size being proposed?
To correct the imbalance between population growth and representation, as current allocation is based on outdated Census data.
Q. How does it affect federalism?
It may shift political power toward high-population States, raising concerns among States with lower population growth.
Q. Why is Rajya Sabha affected?
Because its strength remains unchanged, reducing its relative influence in joint sittings and legislative processes.
Q. What is the link with women’s reservation?
Seat expansion enables implementation of one-third reservation without reducing existing general seats significantly.
