Assam CM Saddened by ECI's Division of Jalukbari Constituency

GUWAHATI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently released the draft delimitation proposal for the state of Assam in Northeast India. One significant aspect of the proposal is the division of the assembly constituency of Jalukbari into three parts. It is worth noting that Jalukbari has been the home constituency of Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, whom he has represented since 2001.

Upon learning about the decision to divide the Jalukbari constituency, Chief Minister Sarma expressed his sadness regarding the stipulation. He stated that the draft delimitation published by the ECI signifies that the current Jalukbari constituency, which he has been representing for over two decades, will cease to exist as it is being split into three separate parts. Despite feeling saddened by the news, Sarma welcomed the draft paper, acknowledging that it accurately reflects the sentiments of the people of Assam.

Earlier on the same day, the ECI presented its draft proposal for the delimitation of Assembly and Parliamentary Constituencies in Assam. This step is of great significance as it marks a long-awaited development in restructuring the political landscape of the state. The last delimitation exercise in Assam occurred in 1976, over four decades ago, making this revision a crucial milestone for the region.

According to the draft proposal, the number of Assembly seats in Assam will remain at 126, based on the 2001 Census data. Additionally, the number of Lok Sabha seats will remain unchanged at 14. Out of the total 126 Assembly seats, 19 seats will be reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs), and nine seats will be reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs). Similarly, among the 14 Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam, two will be reserved for STs, and one will be reserved for SCs.

Furthermore, the district of West Karbi Anglong will witness an increase in the number of assembly seats by one. The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) will also experience a rise in the number of assembly constituencies, increasing from 16 to 19.

It is crucial to note that the Election Commission will be accepting suggestions and objections regarding the draft delimitation proposal until July 11. This period provides an opportunity for stakeholders and citizens to contribute their views and opinions on the proposed changes.

The draft delimitation proposal in Assam holds significance as it aims to ensure fair and effective representation in the state's legislative and parliamentary bodies. By redistributing constituencies based on updated demographic data, the ECI seeks to address changes in population patterns and demographics that have occurred over the past several decades. The objective is to achieve equitable and proportional representation, thereby strengthening the democratic process and reflecting the aspirations of the people of Assam.

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