Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 29 (ANI): Amid the ongoing debate over the delimitation exercise, Union Minister Suresh Gopi defended the process on Thursday, asserting that it would be conducted strictly as per the Constitution.

Responding to concerns and criticisms, he questioned whether past instances of delimitation were also considered 'mishappenings or misdesigning,' adding that the people would ultimately understand the intent behind the exercise.

'Is it happening for the first time, and if they are perplexed about some mishap or misdesign, then was that mishap or misdesign also historical? We won't be doing it that way; it will go by the Constitution. We respect the Constitution. Let them say what they want to; the people will understand. You know how delimitation exercise happens and is made to happen,' Union Minister Gopi said.

Several political parties, particularly in the southern states, have strongly opposed the proposed delimitation exercise. Parties have raised concerns that the move could reduce representation for states that have successfully controlled population growth.

The Telangana Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution expressing serious concerns over the impending delimitation exercise, highlighting the lack of transparent consultations with key stakeholders.

On March 22, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin chaired the first meeting of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in Chennai over the proposed delimitation issue. The meeting was joined by Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and other prominent leaders.

After the first meeting of the Joint Action Committee on delimitation, a resolution was unanimously adopted which asserts that any delimitation exercise carried out by the Centre should be done 'transparently' and after discussion and deliberation with all stakeholders.

Earlier today, during its first general council meeting, actor Vijay's party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) passed a total of 17 resolutions, including a resolution against the three-language policy, proposed delimitation and Waqf (Amendment) Bill. (ANI)