Correct Option
The correct option isThat every vote has roughly equal value across the country.
Explanation
The allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha and the division of states into territorial constituencies are governed by Article 81 of the Indian Constitution. The core objective of this framework is to ensure uniformity of representation based on population data.
Detailed Analysis
- Administrative convenience for the Election Commission. is Incorrect: While administrative convenience is a factor in drawing boundaries (e.g., respecting district or tehsil boundaries), it is not the primary constitutional basis for fixing the number of constituencies.
- That every vote has roughly equal value across the country. is Correct: Article 81 mandates two types of uniformity:
- Inter-State Uniformity: The ratio between the number of seats allotted to a State and its population must be, as far as practicable, the same for all States.
- Intra-State Uniformity: Each State is divided into territorial constituencies such that the ratio between the population of each constituency and the number of seats allotted to it is the same throughout the State.
- That every state gets an equal number of seats. is Incorrect: Equal representation for every state (regardless of population) is a feature of federal chambers in some countries (e.g., the US Senate). In India, the Rajya Sabha allocates seats based on population, not equality of states, and the Lok Sabha is strictly population-based.
- That the Parliament building can accommodate all members. is Incorrect: The physical capacity of the Parliament building is a logistical constraint, not a constitutional or democratic criterion for determining representation.
Key Takeaway: The delimitation of constituencies and allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha are primarily based on population to ensure that the ratio of population to seats remains uniform across the country.