Political Turmoil Over Proposed Increase in Lok Sabha Seats

A proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats by 50% has triggered significant political backlash, particularly from the Congress party, which argues that this move is unfair to southern states. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has raised concerns about the implications of such a change, suggesting it would disproportionately benefit northern states while diminishing representation for smaller states in the south, west, and northeast. The debate centers around the potential impact on seat allocation and regional balance, with Ramesh providing specific examples to illustrate the disparities that could arise. This contentious issue is set to shape the political landscape as discussions continue.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 11:59 IST

Political Controversy Surrounds Lok Sabha Seat Increase Proposal

A political uproar has erupted regarding the central government's alleged proposal to increase the total number of Lok Sabha seats by up to 50 percent. The Congress party has sharply criticized this move, labeling it as "unjust" and detrimental to the interests of southern India.

Congress's Allegations

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has claimed on the social media platform 'X' that the Modi administration is preparing to introduce a bill aimed at expanding the Lok Sabha's size in the context of implementing women's reservation. According to Ramesh:

Seat Allocation: The proposal suggests a 50% increase in the total number of Lok Sabha seats, which will directly impact the allocation of seats to each state.

Regional Imbalance: The Congress argues that this change would disproportionately benefit northern states while weakening the representation of smaller states in the south, west, and northeast.

Ramesh posted on 'X', asserting, "The Modi government is proposing to pass a bill to increase the size of the Lok Sabha by 50 percent. There is also a proposal to increase the number of seats allocated to each state by 50 percent." He added, "It is misleading to argue that a 50% increase in total seats is fair."

The Congress leader emphasized that while the ratio may not change immediately, the implications are significant and cannot be overlooked.

Ramesh stated, "Any increase in the current disparities in the number of seats among various states will adversely affect southern states." He provided an example, noting that Uttar Pradesh currently has 80 seats, while Tamil Nadu has 39. With the proposed bill, Uttar Pradesh's Lok Sabha seats would rise to 120, while Tamil Nadu could only reach a maximum of 59 seats.

Similarly, Kerala's Lok Sabha seats would increase from 20 to 30, and Bihar's from 40 to 60. Overall, southern states would gain 66 seats, while northern states would benefit by 200 seats." Ramesh claimed that Prime Minister Modi is crafting unilateral laws that would harm smaller states in the south, northeast, and west.