Since 1971 census the number of seats in the Lok Sabha has not increased. Do you think that it should be increased? What should be the basis for this?
Yes, the number of seats in the Lok Sabha should be increased. The population of India has grown significantly since the 1971 census, but the number of constituencies has remained fixed at 543.
The basis for increasing seats should be population. According to the Constitution, the country is divided into territorial constituencies of roughly equal population. This ensures that one representative is elected from each constituency through universal adult suffrage, where the value of every individual's vote remains equal. Since the 2011 census shows a substantial increase in population, the number of representatives should be revised to maintain the principle of equal representation.
This would ensure that larger States with more population continue to get more representatives, preserving the democratic principle of proportional representation.
Explanation
The textbook context clearly states that the Lok Sabha has 543 constituencies and this number has not changed since the 1971 census. It also establishes that constituencies are based on 'roughly equal population' and that 'States with larger population get more representatives.' The Activity section references the 2011 census, implying population growth. A student should connect these facts to argue that seats should increase based on population to maintain equal representation.