Naveen Patnaik Flags ‘Threat’ to Odisha in Letter on Delimitation
Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik during campaign for Nuapada bypoll (Image X.com)
Naveen Patnaik warns of reduced Lok Sabha representation for Odisha in letter to MPs, raises concerns over delimitation and women’s quota linkage.
By AMIT KUMAR
New Delhi, April 16, 2026 — Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has raised strong concerns over the proposed Constitutional Amendment and delimitation exercise, warning that it could pose a “gross threat” to Odisha’s political and economic interests.
In a letter to Members of Parliament from the state, Patnaik—who is also president of the Biju Janata Dal—urged leaders across party lines to carefully examine the implications of the proposed changes. While reiterating his support for women’s reservation, he cautioned against linking it with delimitation.
“The essence of Indian federalism lies in balanced representation,” Patnaik wrote, warning that any shift could marginalise states like Odisha in national decision-making. He claimed that the state’s share in the Lok Sabha could fall from 3.9% to 3.4%, weakening its voice on critical issues such as disaster management, tribal welfare, and regional development.
Highlighting the cultural dimension, Patnaik said representation is not just about numbers but also about “identity, pride, and the assurance that our aspirations are heard at the highest levels.” He warned that reduced representation could create a sense of alienation among the people of Odisha.
On economic implications, Patnaik argued that states that have performed well in population control and human development could be penalised. He cautioned that a disproportionate rise in seats for more populous states may skew central resource allocation and infrastructure investments.
Calling for safeguards, Patnaik urged MPs to seek clarity and, if necessary, decouple women’s reservation from the delimitation process. “We should only support the Amendment if Odisha’s share of representation is in no way reduced,” he stated.
He also appealed for a united stand to protect the state’s interests, warning that the issue could be taken to the people if concerns are ignored.
FAQs:
- What did Naveen Patnaik say about delimitation?
He warned that the proposed delimitation could reduce Odisha’s representation in the Lok Sabha and weaken its political voice.
- Does Naveen Patnaik support women’s reservation?
Yes, he supports women’s reservation but opposes linking it with the delimitation process.
- How could Odisha be affected?
Patnaik said Odisha’s share in Lok Sabha could drop from 3.9% to 3.4%, impacting its influence in national decision-making.
- What are the economic concerns raised?
He warned that resource allocation and development priorities could shift against states like Odisha.
- What has he demanded from MPs?
He urged MPs to seek safeguards and ensure Odisha’s representation is not reduced before supporting the Bill.
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