Comparative Analysis of Past Delimitation Exercises & Their Impact on Governance

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                          Comparative Analysis  Delimitation is the process of redrawing the boundaries of electoral constituencies to ensure fair representation based on population changes . In India, it is conducted by the Delimitation Commission , an independent body established under Article 82 (for Lok Sabha) and Article 170 (for State Assemblies) after every Census . Key Objectives of Delimitation ✔ Equal Representation – Ensures constituencies have uniform voter strength , preventing overrepresentation or underrepresentation.  ✔ Electoral Integrity – Adjusts boundaries to reflect demographic shifts , maintaining fair political representation .  ✔ Reservation Adjustments – Determines SC/ST reserved seats based on population distribution. Historical Timeline of Delimitation in India 📌 1952 – First delimitation based on the  1951 Census .  📌 1963 – Adjustments after state reorga...

The Punchhi Commission

 The Punchhi Commission was established in April 2007 under the chairmanship of Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi, a former Chief Justice of India. It was set up to re-examine Centre-State relations, considering the evolving political and economic landscape since the Sarkaria Commission (1988).

Key Recommendations of the Punchhi Commission

  1. Restraint in Using Article 356

    • Suggested that President’s Rule should be imposed only as a last resort.

    • Recommended issuing warnings before invoking Article 356.

  2. Governor’s Role

    • Governors should remain politically neutral for at least two years before appointment.

    • Proposed a committee-based appointment process, including the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, and the concerned Chief Minister.

  3. Inter-State Council

    • Recommended to make the Inter-State Council a permanent body to foster Centre-State cooperation.

  4. Union’s Treaty-Making Power

    • Suggested regulating treaties affecting State List subjects, ensuring state consultation.

  5. Concurrent List Legislation

    • States should be consulted before introducing bills on concurrent list matters.

The Commission emphasized cooperative federalism, ensuring greater autonomy for states while maintaining national unity.

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