Why is it in the news?
The government plans delimitation using the 2011 Census.
Aim to implement Women Reservation Act before 2029 elections.
Category: Polity
Important Points:
● Lok Sabha seats may increase from 543 to 816
● Based on 2011 Census to avoid delay due to new census
● 33% reservation for women (~273 seats)
● Seats allocated through lottery for 15 years
● SC seats: 84 → 136; ST seats: 47 → 70
● Reservation applies within SC/ST categories also
● Delimitation Commission likely by June 2026
● Article 82 & 170 govern delimitation
● Freeze based on 1971 Census till post-2026
● Concerns: North-South imbalance, federal tension
● Risk of gerrymandering and fiscal imbalance
● Suggested weighted formula using TFR, HDI, economy