Southern Indian states are concerned about potential disadvantages from the upcoming delimitation exercise, which could reduce their Lok Sabha seats. This is due to population growth disparities since 1991, with most increases occurring in northern states. States that invested in health and education, leading to lower population growth, fear being penalized. The freeze on seat allocation, extended until 2026, means the next census results in 2028 will inform the delimitation commission's recommendations before the 2029 elections.