Bill to Increase Lok Sabha Constituencies to 850

Main Concept

The bill proposes to increase the number of Lok Sabha members to 850.
This is a significant increase compared to the current strength.

Constitutional Connection

This is a Constitutional Amendment Bill.
Specifically:
Article 81 of the Constitution
It deals with the composition and allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha.
This Article is proposed to be amended.

Reservation for Women

106th Constitutional Amendment Act (2023)
Nari Shakti Vandan Act

Objective:
To provide 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.

Out of 850 constituencies:
Approximately 280 seats will be reserved for women.

Seat Distribution

States → 815 seats
Union Territories → 35 seats

Method of Reservation

Seats reserved for women will be allocated on a rotation basis (Rotation system).

Census Link

Next Census:
Phase 1 – 2026 (House listing)
Phase 2 – 2027 (Population enumeration)

This may lead to implementation delays.

Therefore:
Based on the 2011 Census data
Plan to implement women's reservation before the 2029 elections.

Additional Provisions

Delimitation (Reorganization of constituencies)
In Union Territories (Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Puducherry)
33% reservation for women will be ensured.

Important Points for Exams

Article 81 → Structure of Lok Sabha
106th Constitutional Amendment Act (2023)
33% Reservation for Women
Rotation system
Delimitation
Implementation based on 2011 Census

Summary

Plan to increase Lok Sabha strength to 850.
A major step to implement 33% reservation for women.
Amendment to Article 81 is essential.
Planned to be implemented before 2029.