Lok Sabha delimitation in 2026: Karnataka to get more seats, South’s share to decline

The Lok Sabha is set for a major restructuring by 2026, with constituencies expected to increase based on population. The total number of seats is likely to rise from 543 to 753, significantly altering regional representation.

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In Karnataka, the number of constituencies is projected to grow from 28 to 36. Other South Indian states will see modest increases, except Kerala, which may lose a seat. Tamil Nadu is expected to rise from 39 to 41, Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 28, and Telangana from 17 to 20. However, North Indian states will witness a far greater expansion, with Uttar Pradesh increasing from 80 to 128, Bihar from 40 to 70, and Maharashtra from 48 to 68.

This shift will lead to a decline in South India’s overall representation in the Lok Sabha, dropping from 24% to 19%. Political parties like the Congress and DMK have strongly opposed the delimitation, arguing that it will weaken the South’s influence in national politics.

Critics warn that with North India gaining a larger share of seats, any party could secure a majority in Parliament without winning in the South. This imbalance, they argue, could lead to a diminished political voice for the southern states. The move is expected to spark intense political debate as the 2026 deadline approaches.