2011 Census-based Delimitation May Threaten Southern States’ Representation: Bhatti
The southern States were leading the way in driving social transformation and are collectively exerting pressure on the Centre for equitable policies: Bhatti
Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu here on Saturday stated that if constituency delimitation is carried out based solely on the 2011 Census, it could put the very existence of southern states at risk.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the bicentenary celebrations of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule held at Ravindra Bharathi on Saturday.
“If delimitation is conducted only on the basis of the 2011 population data without considering caste census figures, southern states may lose their political significance, and governments at the Centre could be formed without their adequate representation,” he said.
He said the southern States were leading the way in driving social transformation and are collectively exerting pressure on the Centre for equitable policies. The Deputy Chief Minister alleged that the Centre has reduced the share of tax revenues allocated to southern states as part of a strategy to weaken them.
Highlighting disparities in tax devolution, he said Telangana receives only Rs.0.37 for every Rs.1 contributed to the Centre while Tamil Nadu receives Rs.0.29, and Kerala receives Rs.0.61.
In contrast, Bihar receives Rs.6.53, and Uttar Pradesh receives Rs.2.17 for every Rs.1 contributed. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that ignoring caste census data in delimitation would harm weaker sections across the country and stressed the need for collective struggle to safeguard their rights.
On social justice and governance, he said the State government has prioritized people-centric budgeting, allocating substantial resources based on public needs. He warned that feudal forces are attempting to regroup in the state, fearing losses due to pro-people policies, and called upon Bahujans to unite and protect the people’s government.
The government is committed to social justice and will stand firm despite challenges. The demand for a BC Sub-Plan is under consideration, similar to the already implemented SC and ST Sub-Plan Acts.
