Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has sought to allay concerns raised by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin over the proposed delimitation exercise in 2026. He asserted that the process will lead to an increase in seats across all states, including Tamil Nadu. Stalin wrote to seven Chief Ministers, urging them to oppose the proposed exercise, which he termed a \”blatant assault on federalism\” He has often argued that southern states are being penalized for their success in population control and economic management. \”We controlled our population, built our economy, and now they want to take our voice away?\” he said at a recent public meeting. \”I firmly believe that Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala will also see an increase,\” he further said in a statement. \”If MK Stalin has any objections, he is free to raise them,\” he said. \”The relevant authorities will deliberate on the matter, and the judiciary will have the final say,\” he added.