Constitution Amendment Bill Faces Legislative Power Controversy

National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi voiced concern on Sunday over the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill, which he believes could lead to the concentration of legislative power within five Hindi-speaking states.

Mehdi emphasized the stark contrast between the unanimously passed Women's Reservation Bill and the defeat of a 'so-called' delimitation bill he fears could facilitate gerrymandering. He cited issues within Jammu and Kashmir as an example of similar past actions.

Despite support from 298 members, the amendment failed to reach the required two-thirds majority. This bill aimed to expand Lok Sabha seats to operationalize the women's reservation law by 2029, but is criticized for potentially marginalizing certain states.

(With inputs from agencies.)