Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
Q2. “Constitutional silence on minimum representation for states may intensify regional disparities in parliamentary democracy.” Discuss. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
In the context of the impending delimitation exercise post-2026 and growing debates on federal balance and representation in India.Key Demand of the question
The question requires analysing how absence of minimum representation safeguards can create regional disparities in parliamentary democracy. It also demands examining associated challenges and suggesting suitable reforms.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly indicate the tension between population-based representation and federal equity in India’s constitutional design.Body
- Impact on regional disparities: Show how population-based allocation without safeguards may disadvantage certain states and distort federal balance.
- Challenges arising: Highlight issues like federal tensions, policy bias and risks to national integration.
- Way forward: Suggest need for constitutional safeguards, institutional strengthening and consensus-based reforms.
Conclusion
Emphasise balancing democratic equality with federal fairness through calibrated constitutional and institutional reforms.
