Guwahati: The Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP) has voiced strong concerns over the proposed national delimitation exercise, warning that it could have far-reaching implications for Assam’s political representation and cultural identity.
In a statement, party president Lurinjyoti Gogoi and general secretary Jagadish Bhuyan said that while delimitation is a constitutional mandate, it must not be implemented in a manner that undermines the state’s unique demographic and cultural character.
The party expressed apprehension over reports of expanding the Lok Sabha to around 850 seats based on the 2011 Census, arguing that such a move could significantly enhance the political influence of populous states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It cautioned that this may reduce the voice and relevance of smaller regions, particularly the Northeast, in national decision-making.
Raising cultural concerns, the AJP warned against what it termed “Hindi-fication”, stating that the growing presence of candidates from outside the state—who may lack familiarity with the Assamese language and local traditions, could erode the linguistic and cultural fabric of Assam.
It further alleged that allowing non-indigenous candidates to contest from multiple Assembly constituencies risks sidelining local communities and weakening indigenous political representation.
The party also reiterated its opposition to the delimitation exercise carried out in Assam in 2023, claiming that constituency boundaries were redrawn to favour electoral considerations rather than administrative efficiency. It argued that the exercise adversely impacted indigenous communities, particularly in upper Assam, and failed to safeguard the interests of “Khilonjiya” people.
Outlining its proposals, the AJP called for the implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord to ensure reservation of seats for indigenous people in both the Assembly and Parliament. It also suggested that delimitation should not be based solely on population, and that states which have effectively controlled population growth should be given due consideration.
The party further recommended that candidates contesting from indigenous or unreserved seats should be proficient in the Assamese language and have a verifiable history of residence in the state.
In addition, it advocated for a legal framework to clearly define and recognise indigenous Assamese people in order to safeguard their political representation and land rights.
Calling for a united stand, the party leadership urged regional political forces to oppose the proposed delimitation exercise in its present form, stressing the need to protect Assam’s long-term interests.