Revanth Reddy Joins Stalin in Fight Against Delimitation, Accuses BJP of Targeting Southern States

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has strongly opposed the Centre's proposed delimitation exercise, calling it a conspiracy against southern states. Expressing his support for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's stand, Reddy accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of engaging in "vendetta politics" against the south for not allowing the party to expand in the region.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Reddy made it clear that he would not accept the delimitation exercise at any cost, saying, "This is not a delimitation but a 'limitation' for southern states." He alleged that the BJP-led central government was using this as a tool to undermine the political influence of the south.

A delegation of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leaders, led by MP Kanimozhi, met Reddy in Delhi to hand over an invitation from Stalin, urging him to attend a meeting opposing the delimitation. Reddy welcomed Stalin's initiative and acknowledged the need for a united stand against the Centre's move. However, he noted that he would need approval from the Congress high command before formally joining the meeting, though he had already agreed with the demand in principle.

The delimitation issue has been a growing concern for southern states, as many leaders fear it could significantly reduce their representation in Parliament. The opposition argues that states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Kerala are being penalized for successfully implementing population control measures, while northern states-where population growth remains high-could gain additional seats.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also come out in support of Stalin, stating that the central government's actions are undemocratic and against the federal spirit of the Constitution. "We condemn without hesitation all the actions of the central government that are against the interests of Karnataka, weaken democracy, and go against the federal principle," he said.

Stalin has been at the forefront of the opposition against the delimitation exercise. He recently held an all-party meeting in Tamil Nadu, where leaders from various political backgrounds united to challenge the Centre's approach. While the Union government claims that the number of seats in southern states will not be reduced, it has remained silent on whether the number of seats in northern states will be increased, further fueling concerns about unfair representation.

With political tensions rising, the battle over delimitation is shaping up to be a major flashpoint between the southern states and the BJP-led central government.