2011 Census-based Delimitation May Threaten Southern States’ Representation: Bhatti

He was speaking as the chief guest at the bicentenary celebrations of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule held at Ravindra Bharathi on Saturday.

“If delimitation is done solely on the basis of 2011 population data without taking into account caste census figures, southern states may lose their political importance and governments at the Center may be formed without adequate representation,” he said.

He said the southern states are taking the lead in driving social transformation and are collectively putting pressure on the Center for egalitarian policies. The Deputy Chief Minister alleged that the Center has reduced the share of tax revenue allocated to southern states as part of its strategy to weaken them.

Highlighting the disparities in tax devolution, he said Telangana gets only Rs 0.37 for every Rs 1 contributed to the Centre, while Tamil Nadu gets Rs 0.29 and Kerala gets Rs 0.61.

In comparison, Bihar gets Rs 6.53 for every Rs 1 contributed, while Uttar Pradesh gets Rs 2.17. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that ignoring caste census data in delimitation will harm the weaker sections across the country and the need for a collective struggle to protect their rights.

On social justice and governance, he said the State government has prioritized people-centric budgeting and allocated significant resources as per public needs. He warned that feudal forces were trying to regroup in the state, fearing losses due to pro-people policies, and urged the Bahujans to unite and protect the people’s government.

The government is committed to social justice and will stand firm despite the challenges. Similar to the currently implemented SC and ST Sub Plan Acts, the demand for a BC Sub Plan is also under consideration.