Assam Chief Minister Dismisses Opposition to Delimitation Exercise, Claims Electoral Motives

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed opposition to the draft proposal for the delimitation exercise of constituencies in the state, asserting that there are no issues with the process. In a press conference, Sarma stated that the opposition primarily comes from individuals who lack an understanding of the delimitation process or are apprehensive about an imminent electoral defeat.

Highlighting the secular nature of India and the inclusive approach taken in determining constituencies, Sarma emphasized that reservations are allocated based on population figures to ensure the welfare of all communities. He addressed reporters on the sidelines of a program, stating, “We are a secular nation where constituencies are determined by keeping everyone’s well-being in mind. Reservation is done based on the population figure of a specific community.”

Sarma firmly maintained that there have been no problems encountered in the exercise of redrawing assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam. He attributed the dissent to certain individuals who are apprehensive about their anticipated electoral defeat and suggested that their criticism stems from a lack of knowledge about the law and the Constitution.

Refuting claims that specific communities, including Rabhas, Morans, Mottocks, and Ahoms, are dissatisfied with the draft proposal, the Chief Minister affirmed that they are, in fact, content. He cited his visits to Lakhimpur and Dhemaji, regions with significant tribal populations, where he did not encounter any grievances. Sarma, being the chief minister, asserted that he would have been aware of any discontent had it existed. Furthermore, he emphasized that delimitation is carried out based on population figures and criticized the opponents of the draft for their lack of knowledge regarding the law and Constitution.

The draft delimitation document, published on June 20 by the Election Commission, proposes to maintain the number of assembly seats in Assam at 126 and Lok Sabha constituencies at 14. The proposal involves modifying the geographical boundaries of most constituencies, eliminating some seats, and creating new ones. Consequently, opposition parties, as well as allies of the ruling BJP-led coalition government, have voiced protests in the state.

Opposition parties have accused the BJP of attempting to polarize voters along religious lines and disregarding the sentiments of the people. They have decided to present the grievances of citizens before the Election Commission. The draft delimitation proposal has sparked controversy, with political stakeholders engaged in a debate over its implications for electoral dynamics in Assam.