GS2 · 15 marks · 250 words

Delimitation of seats is essential to ensure fair representation and uphold the principles of one vote, one value. Highlighting the challenges posed by misrepresentation in constituencies analyze the ramifications of population-based delimitation in creating federal tension.

Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2024

FederalismParliamentElections and RepresentationCentre-State Relations

Syllabus: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

How toppers approached it

From all 4 answers · about 260 words · 25% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening2 of 4
  • A date or context1 of 4
  • A definition1 of 4

Body

  • Points and prose2 of 4
  • Points2 of 4

Close

  • A way forward3 of 4
  • No separate close1 of 4

The toppers’ answers

NausheenAIR 9 · CSE 2023 · 150 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a recent event

Recently, an exercise on delimitation of seats has been taken in Jammu and Kashmir.

Body · points and prose

Delimitation of seats - essential to ensure fair representation and 'One vote One Value'

↳ (1) Adjusting the number of seats in each constituency with its population.

↳ (2) Adjusting number of seats of each state with its population as well.

Challenges posed by misrepresentation of constituencies :-

Diagram
challenges - 1: Unfair representation to certain constituencies. - 2: Against constitutional value of equal representation and democracy. - 3: underrepresentation of areas creates federal tensions. - 4: Retorting to violent protests to channelise demands.

Ramifications of population based delimitations in federal tensions

  • (1) Underrepresentation of southern states in Parliament, as their TFR is decreasing.

  • (2) No proper means of channelising grievances of many areas. E.g. Opposition to NEP - "3 language formula"

  • (3) Under-representation of areas like North eastern states.

Close

However, population based delimitation ensures that Parliament & state legislature reflects the actual populace and provide a proper channel to their aspirations.

For southern states, population estimates of 2001 census is still being used and constituencies has been freezed.

More on Federalism

The federal structure, its asymmetries and the balance the Constitution strikes.

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