Define delimitation commission ,and its functions and jurisdiction?
The Delimitation commission or boundary commission established by government of India under the provisions of the Delimitation Commission Act. The main task of the commission is redrawing the boundaries of the various assembly and Lok Sabha consitution based on a recent census.
Define delimitation commission ,and its functions and jurisdiction?
Delimitation Commission:
The Delimitation Commission is a constitutional body in India that is responsible for the demarcation of boundaries of parliamentary and assembly constituencies. It is formed under the provisions of the Delimitation Act, 2002, which was enacted to provide for the readjustment of seats in the Lok Sabha and the state legislative assemblies.
Functions of the Delimitation Commission:
1. Determination of boundaries: The primary function of the Delimitation Commission is to determine the boundaries of parliamentary and assembly constituencies. It takes into account factors such as population density, geographical features, and administrative convenience while demarcating these boundaries.
2. Allocation of seats: The Commission also allocates the number of seats to be reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in parliamentary and assembly constituencies. This ensures adequate representation for marginalized communities in the democratic process.
3. Review of constituencies: The Delimitation Commission reviews the existing constituencies and may alter the number and boundaries of constituencies based on changes in population. This helps in maintaining a balance of representation among different regions and communities.
4. Publication of orders: After completing the process of delimitation, the Commission publishes its orders indicating the constituencies and their boundaries. These orders have the force of law and are binding on all concerned.
Jurisdiction of the Delimitation Commission:
1. Parliament constituencies: The Delimitation Commission is responsible for the delimitation of boundaries of parliamentary constituencies across the country. It ensures that each constituency has a similar number of voters, as far as possible, to uphold the principle of equal representation.
2. State legislative assemblies: The Commission also delimits the boundaries of assembly constituencies within each state and union territory. This is done to ensure proportional representation and to accommodate changes in population distribution.
3. Union territories: The Delimitation Commission is also entrusted with the task of delimiting the constituencies in union territories having a legislative assembly. It ensures that these territories are provided with adequate representation in the legislative bodies.
4. Timeframe: The Delimitation Commission is usually constituted once in ten years, or as and when directed by the President of India. The process of delimitation should be completed within a stipulated time frame to avoid any delay in elections.
In conclusion, the Delimitation Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring fair representation and effective functioning of the democratic system in India. It demarcates boundaries, allocates seats, and reviews constituencies to maintain equality and balance in the electoral process.
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