Harshdev rules out govt formula of delimitation of constituencies

Jammu, May 9 (UNI) Former Minister and National Panthers Party (NPP) leader Harshdev Singh has ruled out the formula mooted by Jammu and Kashmir government for 25 per cent proportionate increase in the number of seats in legislative Assembly in the proposed delimitation of constituencies.

Talking to mediapersons in a press conference, NPP MLA said the proportionate increase would furhter widen the gulf between the various regions of the state, besides being highly unjust and discriminatory against Jammu region.

Mr singh said the proportionate increase of seats would mean 46 seats for Jammu, 58 seats for Kashmir and five seats for Ladakh.

''The proposed formula would increase the gap between Jammu and Kashmir regions by 12 seats as against the present difference of nine seats,'' he added.

Mr Singh said he would project the equal seats formula in the May 12 meeting convened by the Chief Minister on the issue of delimitation of seats and would press for accepting the Private Member Bill which was moved by him in the Assembly in budget session.

''I porposed 52 seats each for Jammu and Kashmir, six seats for Ladakh and 30 seats for Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) region,'' he said.

UNI