Stalin Warns of LS Seat Reduction Due to Family Planning, Slams Centre on Language Policy

Chennai- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief MK Stalin has once again raised concerns over the possible reduction of parliamentary seats for southern states due to the delimitation exercise. Speaking at a wedding event in his Kolathur constituency on Sunday, Stalin said Tamil Nadu’s commitment to family planning has led to a decline in population growth, which could result in a cut in its Lok Sabha seats.

“The family planning campaign has been properly followed in Tamil Nadu, and as a result, there is now a situation where our parliamentary seats may be reduced due to delimitation,” Stalin said. The state, which currently has 39 Lok Sabha seats, has strongly opposed any reduction in its representation.

The issue of delimitation has been a growing concern among southern states, as they fear a disproportionate loss of seats compared to states with higher population growth rates. Stalin had previously remarked that such a move could push people to consider having “16 children” – a reference to a Tamil saying on wealth and prosperity.

Language Row Intensifies
During his speech, Stalin also urged newlyweds to name their children in Tamil, indirectly addressing the ongoing language debate. His remarks come amid the DMK’s strong opposition to the BJP-led Centre’s push for a three-language policy, which the ruling party in Tamil Nadu sees as an attempt to impose Hindi.

The DMK has accused the Centre of using financial pressure to enforce its education policies. Stalin reiterated that Tamil Nadu would not implement the National Education Policy (NEP), even if the Centre offered ₹10,000 crore in funds. His son and state minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has gone a step further, declaring that Tamil Nadu is ready for a “language war” to resist Hindi imposition.

Tamil Nadu has historically followed a two-language policy, with Tamil and English as the primary languages of education. The state has witnessed major anti-Hindi agitations in the 1930s and 1960s and continues to oppose any moves that could alter its linguistic identity.

As the debate over delimitation and language policies intensifies, Tamil Nadu’s leadership remains firm in its stance against any move that could dilute its representation or cultural identity.