Kharge Writes to Modi Demanding All-Party Meeting on Delimitation

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, renewing demands for an all-party meeting to discuss the government's proposed delimitation exercise and urging against any attempt to rush legislation through Parliament. The letter, dated August 27, 2026, comes amid speculation about a possible special session, following remarks by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.

In his communication, Kharge referenced his previous letter of July 16, 2026, which had made similar requests. He stated he was reiterating the demand after Rijiju indicated in a television interview that another sitting of Parliament could be convened. Kharge suggested this possibility might explain the continued delay in formally proroguing the Monsoon Session, which was adjourned sine die on August 13, 2026.

Kharge outlined a clear three-point position for the Congress party. He demanded that the existing strength of the Lok Sabha be maintained at 543 seats for another 25 years, that the current state-wise allocation of seats be preserved for the same period, and that a one-third reservation for women be implemented starting with the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. He...