DK Shivakumar Slams Delimitation Move, Calls It ‘Political Re-engineering Against South’

“This is not delimitation. This is political re-engineering at the cost of Southern states,” he said, adding that the proposal would “systematically reduce the voice of the South” and effectively punish states that have focused on governance and development.

Shivakumar clarified that the Congress party fully supports Women’s Reservation, stating that the initiative was a result of the vision and commitment of Sonia Gandhi. However, he stressed that its implementation should not be linked to delimitation or any expansion of parliamentary seats.

He further accused the Union Government of attempting to use women’s empowerment as a cover to push what he described as an unfair political agenda. He also questioned the timing of such a major structural change, alleging that pushing it during election periods without proper consultation or transparency raises serious concerns.

Highlighting the principles of federalism, Shivakumar asserted that India’s strength lies in balance and fairness, not domination or manipulation. He emphasized that Southern states would stand united to protect their political representation and constitutional rights.

“The Southern states will speak in one voice and defend the true spirit of federalism. We will not allow the South to be politically marginalised,” he said.

The remarks come amid growing debate over the future delimitation exercise and its potential political and regional implications across the country.