Editor
GUWAHATI: In a significant move towards strengthening democratic representation, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has released the draft delimitation proposal for the state of Assam. This proposal aims to allocate seats in the Assembly and Parliament while prioritizing the inclusion of Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Scheduled Castes (SCs).
According to the draft proposal, 19 Assembly seats and 2 Parliamentary seats have been reserved for STs, ensuring enhanced political representation for these communities. Additionally, 9 Assembly seats and 1 Parliamentary seat have been reserved for SCs, further promoting their participation in the political process. The total number of seats in the Assam Assembly remains unchanged at 126, while the Parliament seats stand at 14.
The delimitation proposal brings about a fairer distribution of seats across various districts and regions in Assam. The number of SC assembly seats has increased from 8 to 9, allowing for a more comprehensive representation of the SC population. Moreover, the ST assembly seats have increased from 16 to 19, addressing the longstanding demand for greater political empowerment among tribal communities.
One notable change introduced by the delimitation proposal is the addition of an assembly seat in the West Karbi Anglong district, signifying an effort to ensure adequate representation for the region. Furthermore, the Bodoland districts will now have 19 assembly constituencies, up from the previous 16, reflecting the evolving demographics and growth of these areas.
Regarding Parliamentary seats, one new constituency named Kaziranga has been designated, showcasing the commitment to recognizing emerging socio-political dynamics in the region. The parliamentary seats of Diphu and Kokrajhar have been reserved for STs, while the Lakhimpur parliamentary seat remains unreserved.
The draft proposal has been meticulously prepared, taking into account various administrative units such as development blocks, panchayats and villages, municipal boards, and wards. This comprehensive approach ensures that the delimitation process is based on granular data and captures the diverse demographics and needs of the Assam population.
The release of the draft delimitation proposal by the ECI marks an important step towards fostering a more inclusive and representative democracy in Assam. By reserving seats for STs and SCs and accommodating changes in population distribution, the proposal aims to bridge historical gaps in political representation and empower marginalized communities. The ECI invites public feedback and suggestions on the draft proposal, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and participatory decision-making.