BENGALURU: The proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka from 28 to 42, along with a likely 50% expansion in assembly constituencies, has sparked a debate on whether the move will benefit the state or leave its political weight largely unchanged. The timeline for the exercise remains uncertain following the defeat of the Women’s Reservation Bill linked to delimitation, but the proposed exercise is expected to reshape political strategies, including candidate selection and alliances besides caste and regional equations across the state. Experts say the expansion presents a mixed scenario. While more MPs and MLAs could improve representation and accessibility for a growing population, concerns persist that Karnataka’s proportional share in the Lok Sabha may not change significantly if seat increases are applied uniformly across states. Political strategist MB Maramkal said the outcome would depend on how scientifically the exercise is carried out. “If done with clearly defined parameters, it can benefit all sections,” said Maramkal. “But delimitation exercises are rarely scientific and are often influenced by political considerations. For instance, reservation of seats for SC and ST communities saw uneven distribution which is now under legal scrutiny.” He said that while political equations may shift, voting patterns may not change drastically. “The voice of marginalised groups may become stronger, but with money power increasing, economically stronger sections could gain political influence,” Maramkal said. Psephologist Sandeep Shastri said a uniform formula could address fears of imbalance. “If seat increases are applied equally across states, southern states need not worry about a decline in their share in the Lok Sabha,” he said. “However, this raises operational questions — with more MPs and MLAs, will there be adequate opportunities for debate, and will legislative quality improve with higher numbers?” Political analyst Prof Harish Ramaswamy said the exercise is long overdue but has wide implications. “Delimitation based on population is logical given demographic shifts,” said Ramaswamy. “However, it will alter constituency boundaries and political equations. Redistribution of voters may benefit some parties or candidates, while others may lose their influence,” he said. He said concerns about northern states gaining an advantage reflect political perceptions. “If implemented proportionately, there may be no inherent bias, but such exercises remain contentious,” Ramaswamy said. Congress spokesperson Brijesh Kalappa said the key benefit would be improved access. “With more representatives, citizens may have better access to their MPs and MLAs. Engagement between voters and representatives could improve,” he said. Deputy opposition leader in the legislative assembly Aravind Bellad of BJP said the expansion could strengthen democratic participation. “Karnataka stands to benefit from increased representation in the Lok Sabha. It will also create more space for women in politics,” he said.
