Correct Answer
The correct Answer is Only two pairs.
Explanation
The :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} allocates and reserves constituencies strictly in accordance with Constitutional provisions, primarily to ensure adequate political representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes based on population distribution.
Statement-wise Analysis
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Scheduled Tribes - Constituencies with the highest proportion of ST population
Correct. Seats are reserved for Scheduled Tribes in constituencies where the proportion of the ST population is relatively high, as mandated by constitutional provisions. -
Scheduled Castes - Constituencies with higher SC population, spread across different regions
Correct. Reserved constituencies for Scheduled Castes are identified on the basis of higher SC population and are geographically distributed to ensure balanced representation. -
Women - Constituencies with the lowest sex ratio
Incorrect. There is no constitutional provision authorising the Delimitation Commission to reserve constituencies for women, nor is sex ratio a criterion for reservation. -
Religious Minorities - Constituencies with historical significance
Incorrect. The Constitution does not provide for reservation of constituencies for religious minorities, and historical significance is not a recognised criterion.
Key Takeaway: Constituency reservation by the Delimitation Commission is constitutionally limited to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and is based on population proportion, not on gender, religion, or historical factors.