New Delhi : The Congress party has strongly criticised the proposed Delimitation Bill, calling it a direct assault on India’s federal structure and constitutional framework.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal questioned the government’s intent behind linking women’s reservation to the delimitation process. He recalled that when Parliament passed the 33 percent reservation for women in 2023, senior opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Sonia Gandhi had urged the government to implement the quota in the 2024 elections.
He raised concerns over the delay, pointing out that the government had tied the implementation of women’s reservation to the Census and delimitation process, which is now unlikely to be completed before 2029.
Accusing the government of attempting to bypass constitutional safeguards, Venugopal alleged that the move reflects political calculations ahead of the next general elections. He claimed the ruling dispensation is seeking an “escape route” for 2029 by introducing what he termed an unconstitutional measure.
He urged the government to withdraw the Bill, warning that it undermines democratic principles and the spirit of federalism.