Why in the News
The Union Government is considering a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census to implement the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 before the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
Key Proposals
- Lok Sabha seats likely to increase from 543 to 816
- 273 seats proposed to be reserved for women
- State Assembly seats may also be expanded
- Amendment Bill may be introduced in:
- Ongoing Budget Session, or
- Special Session of Parliament
Reason for the Move
- Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 requires:
- Census
- Delimitation
- Then implementation of 33% quota
- 2021 Census delayed due to COVID-19
- Without amendment, implementation could be delayed beyond 2030
- Government aims to implement quota before 2029 elections
Concerns of States
- Southern States worried about loss of representation
- Government proposal:
- Maintain existing proportion of seats
- Around 50% increase in seats across all States
- Pro-rata distribution to avoid regional imbalance
Constitutional Background
- Article 82: Delimitation after first Census post-2026
- Proposed amendment:
- Use 2011 Census data
- Avoid waiting for latest Census completion
| [2024] Consider the following statements regarding ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’: 1 Provisions will come into effect from the 18th Lok Sabha. 2 This will be in force for 15 years after becoming an Act. 3 There are provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes Women within the quota reserved for the Scheduled Castes. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only |
