The Parliament is witnessing high-octane sessions as the Centre introduces three critical amendment bills. These moves are designed to accelerate the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) by decoupling it from future census figures and utilizing existing data.
Key Highlights of the 2026 Delimitation Bill
The proposed legislation aims to fundamentally alter the structure of the Indian Parliament:
- Seat Expansion: The Constitution (131st) Amendment Bill proposes increasing the Lok Sabha strength from 543 to 850 seats.
- Women’s Reservation: Out of the 850 seats, 273 (33%) will be reserved for women.
- Census Shift: To fast-track the process, the delimitation exercise will be based on 2011 Census figures rather than waiting for the delayed 2021 or upcoming 2027 data.
Home Minister’s Address: Caste Census and Quotas
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister Amit Shah made several landmark clarifications regarding the government’s stance:
- Religion-Based Quota: Shah reiterated that “religion-based quota is unconstitutional” and against the core tenets of the Indian Constitution.
- Caste Census: In a significant move, he confirmed that the government has decided to conduct a Caste Census, and the 2029 Census process has already been initiated.
- Implementation: He addressed the opposition’s queries by stating that the current bills are necessary to ensure women’s reservation is not delayed until 2034.
Opposition Response: The “Sandwich Bills” Controversy
The INDIA bloc, led by the Congress and regional parties like the DMK, has voiced strong objections:
- Political Motivation: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that while they support women’s reservation, they oppose the Delimitation Bill, calling it “politically motivated.”
- The “Sandwich” Terminology: The DMK has termed these amendments “sandwich bills,” expressing concern over the redrawing of boundaries based on older 2011 data, which they argue may unfairly penalize states that have successfully implemented population control.
What’s Next? The Centre is expected to specify the state-wise allocation of the new 850 seats later today, which will likely be the next flashpoint between the ruling party and the opposition.