KTR Backs Delimitation but Warns Against ‘Population-Based Penalty’ for Southern States

25 Mar 2026
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BRS leader KT Rama Rao supports delimitation in Telangana but cautions against reducing southern states’ representation based solely on population.

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) has reiterated his support for the long-pending delimitation exercise in Telangana, while cautioning against any approach that could disadvantage southern states.

Addressing the issue, KTR said delimitation is necessary to correct imbalances in Assembly constituencies, pointing to stark differences in voter size across regions. He argued that expanding Assembly seats would improve governance by bringing representation closer to people.

However, he raised concerns over proposals that link parliamentary seat allocation purely to population. KTR maintained that such a formula could reduce the representation of southern states, which, he said, have effectively implemented population control measures. He urged that any exercise should follow earlier frameworks, such as those based on the 1971 Census, to ensure fairness.

The BRS leader also launched a sharp attack on the state government over its Transferable Development Rights (TDR) policy, alleging irregularities and calling it a “major scam.” He claimed that certain individuals linked to the ruling establishment were benefiting from the policy and demanded a future investigation.

On the Musi river project, KTR criticised what he described as a lack of clarity in planning and funding. He alleged that key aspects such as financial backing and the Detailed Project Report were yet to be finalised, and called for greater public consultation, especially with residents living along the river.

The remarks underline how delimitation and urban development projects are emerging as key political issues in Telangana. Experts note that while delimitation can improve representation, balancing regional interests will remain a sensitive challenge in national politics.