The inaugural meeting of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) on delimitation took place on Saturday, chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader M.K. Stalin.
The gathering saw participation from 14 representatives across five states, who discussed the potential impact of the Lok Sabha seat delimitation exercise on states known for their significant economic development and high literacy rates.
Stalin emphasized the historical significance of the day, welcoming all Chief Ministers and political leaders with a united front to protect the federal structure against perceived threats from the delimitation process. He expressed hope for a fair approach to delimitation, which has been encapsulated in the hashtag #FairDelimitation.
In contrast, the opposition BJP protested the meeting, criticizing Stalin for not addressing ongoing water-sharing disputes with Karnataka and Kerala regarding the Cauvery and Mullaiperiyar dams. BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan labeled the meeting a “corruption concealing gathering” of state leaders.
Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, asserted that South Indian states have adhered to census regulations and family planning policies, showcasing a record of progress in both the economy and education. He stressed the importance of maintaining their representation in the national assembly.
BJP national spokesperson C.R. Kesavan dismissed the JAC meeting as a distraction from the DMK’s governance issues, calling it a divisive tactic that would ultimately backfire. He also criticized Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party for their inconsistent stance on delimitation, accusing them of political opportunism.
Soundararajan reinforced the BJP’s position by questioning Stalin’s lack of action on the Cauvery and Mullaperiyar issues. She pointed out that although Home Minister Amit Shah had clarified that Tamil Nadu would not be adversely affected by delimitation, the gathering still took place, implying an ulterior motive.
Earlier, several Chief Ministers, including those from Kerala, Telangana, and Punjab, attended the meeting in Chennai, alongside prominent political figures from Kerala. The DMK has sought the involvement of leaders from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, and Punjab for this initiative.
Stalin called the assembly a “landmark moment,” noting that it is a reflection of a united stance from various parties committed to democracy and justice. He described the coalition as part of a national movement advocating for equitable representation in the political landscape, stating that this event marks a pivotal step toward achieving #FairDelimitation.
