SRINAGAR, Apr 15: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday underscored the importance of a coordinated approach by the INDIA bloc regarding the proposed parliamentary delimitation bill, asserting that a fragmented response would weaken the opposition’s position.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah indicated that the matter would be taken up during an meeting of the opposition alliance in New Delhi. The scheduled at the residence of Mallikarjun Kharge, where leaders are expected to deliberate and shape a unified strategy on the issue.
Highlighting the significance of collective action, Abdullah remarked that individual political parties responding independently would not yield meaningful results. He emphasized that a joint stance in Parliament is essential to effectively address the implications of the proposed legislation.
The Chief Minister also voiced apprehensions about previous delimitation exercises, alleging that the restructuring of constituencies had been carried out in a manner that politically advantaged the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies. He pointed to concerns over seat distribution, redrawing of electoral boundaries, and shifting of voter bases, suggesting these measures were strategically aligned.
Furthermore, Abdullah noted that the proposed bill, which may include changes such as an increase in the number of Lok Sabha seats and provisions for enhanced women’s representation, would be carefully examined by the opposition bloc before taking a formal position.
He reiterated that the INDIA alliance must engage in thorough consultation to ensure that its response reflects consensus and addresses broader democratic concerns tied to electoral fairness and representation.