GS2 · Polity11 Oct 2026 · The Hindu — National
Delimitation plan sparks federal power imbalance concerns
The Centre made an oral assurance while introducing the Bill to increase Lok Sabha seats that each State’s share would increase by 50% on a pro-rata basis. However, the increase could weaken the Rajya Sabha’s role as a check on the Lower House, while the Lok Sabha’s limited sitting days would leave MPs with less time to raise issues
Quick Revision
Prelims-testable facts
- 01The Delimitation Commission is responsible for redrawing the boundaries of Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies.
- 02The last delimitation exercise was conducted in 2002, with the next one scheduled to be completed by 2026.
- 03The Delimitation Commission is headed by a retired Chief Justice of India or a former Judge of the Supreme Court.
- 04The Lok Sabha has a limited sitting period of 5 years, with a maximum of 5 sessions per year.
- 05The Rajya Sabha has a fixed strength of 250 members, with 12 members nominated by the President.
- 06The Delimitation Commission is required to complete its work within a period of 3 years from the date of its constitution.
- 07The Delimitation Commission is responsible for ensuring that the number of Lok Sabha seats allocated to each state is based on its population.
Trap alerts
- Most people think that the Delimitation Commission is responsible for allocating Lok Sabha seats to states based solely on their population, but actually, the Commission must also consider the principle of proportionate representation.
- Most people think that the Rajya Sabha has equal powers with the Lok Sabha, but actually, the Rajya Sabha has limited powers and is primarily a revising authority.
Mains Practice Question
Critically examine the implications of increasing Lok Sabha seats on the federal balance and the role of the Rajya Sabha.
250 words
Practice this in the exam hall →Prelims Practice MCQ
Single factmedium
The increase in Lok Sabha seats could weaken the Rajya Sabha's role as a check on the Lower House in which aspect?
- A.Legislative scrutiny
- B.Financial control
- C.Representative balance
- D.Judicial oversight
The Rajya Sabha's representative balance is a key aspect of its role as a check on the Lok Sabha, and the increase in Lok Sabha seats could erode this balance.
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