New Delhi, Apr 16 (UNI) Congress MP Hibi Eden has formally given notice in the Lok Sabha opposing the introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-first Amendment) Bill, 2026, alleging that the proposed legislation poses a threat to the federal structure and fair representation in the country.
In a notice submitted on Thursday to the Secretary-General of the Lok Sabha under Rule 72 of the Rules of Procedure, Eden stated his intention to resist the Bill’s introduction, arguing that it “is a clear attack on the Constitution.”
He contended that the proposed amendments to Articles 82 and 334A would “remove the constitutional anchor that historically tied delimitation to the latest census,” thereby opening the door to arbitrary changes in the composition of the lower house.
“The Bill seeks to arbitrarily increase seats in Lok Sabha and redraw boundaries, which is bound to disadvantage southern states such as Kerala and skew the federal balance in favour of the Hindi heartland states,” Eden said in his notice, raising concerns over regional equity and representation.
The Congress leader further alleged that the government’s move is politically motivated and not genuinely linked to women’s empowerment. “This Bill has nothing to do with women’s reservation—this is purely BJP’s attempt to hurriedly carry out delimitation for their political gains and escape the caste debate completely,” he said.
Eden also pointed out that the proposed legislation fails to address the issue of representation for the Anglo-Indian community, noting that their reserved seats were discontinued following the 104th Constitutional Amendment. “The Government has not addressed the issue of reservation for Anglo-Indians,” he added.
Calling for the withdrawal of the Bill, Eden said it raises “serious concerns regarding federalism, fair representation and the democratic structure of India,” and urged that it not be introduced in its current form.
The notice comes amid a politically charged special session of Parliament, where the government is expected to push forward key legislative proposals, including measures linked to delimitation and the implementation of women’s reservation.
The developments have intensified the debate between the ruling dispensation and opposition parties over the timing, intent and potential impact of the proposed constitutional changes.
UNI SKA ARN