Bhubaneswar: Opposing the proposed Delimitation Bill aimed at altering the composition of the Lok Sabha, Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to take up concerns over a potential reduction in the state’s representation.

Patnaik stated any dilution of Odisha’s political rights would undermine the aspirations of its people.

“I appeal to you as the Chief Minister of Odisha to take up this issue strongly. You have the moral and legitimate power to do so. Future generations will not forgive us if we remain silent while Odisha is reduced to a politically insignificant state,” the letter read.

He also called for a special session of the Assembly within 48 hours to pass a resolution ensuring that “not even 0.001% of Odisha’s political rights are compromised.”

Patnaik, however, said the Biju Janata Dal would support the Delimitation Bill if the state’s political rights remain fully protected.

The proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, seeks to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to 850 members.

Patnaik's worriness about

“Currently, Odisha has 21 MPs, accounting for about 3.9% of the total. If the amendment is passed, the number may rise to 29, but the proportion will fall to 3.4%. This could translate into a potential 15% decline in Odisha’s political representation at the national level,” Patnaik wrote.

He further argued the Bill could weaken Odisha’s political voice and influence, with representation being redistributed to other states, making Odisha one of the biggest losers in the exercise.

“This will be a huge blow to the aspirations of 4.5 crore Odias and a grave injustice to future generations,” he said.

Appealing for unity, Patnaik added, “I urge you, as a fellow Odia, to take up this issue strongly. The BJD will stand with you, as it concerns the fate and future of our beloved state.”

Additionally, the BJD chief reiterated his party’s support for the Women’s Reservation Bill, highlighting that his government had implemented 50% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj institutions during its tenure.