1 week Ago
The Narendra Modi-led Union cabinet is set to table the contentious ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill during the ongoing winter session of Parliament. The proposed legislation, aimed at synchronising elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies, is expected to be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further scrutiny, political watchers believe. The ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative envisions a unified electoral calendar across India to reduce the frequency and cost of conducting polls.
The Union cabinet approved the phased implementation of this ambitious project in September this year. PM Modi hailed the decision of the cabinet. The Bill may be tabled on 13 and 14 December, according to observers.
Notably, the ruling BJP has issued a three-line whip to all its MPs, asking them to be present in the House on 13 and 14 December for discussions on some important legislative business. According to the Kovind plan (formulated by a high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind), simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies would be prioritised, with local body elections to follow within 100 days. The Kovind committee, which delivered its findings in March ahead of the Lok Sabha election announcement, emphasised the need for constitutional amendments to facilitate simultaneous polls.
Key recommendations of the Kovind committee 1. Two-phase polls: Conducting elections in two phases to streamline logistical and administrative challenges. 2.
Constitutional amendments: Amending articles 83 and 172 to align the terms of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, alongside changes to three other articles. 3. Consensus building: Urging the Union government to foster political consensus, as the initiative transcends party lines.
Former President Kovind has described the initiative as a potential “game-changer” for India’s democratic landscape. He noted, “This issue is not in the interest of any party but the nation. Economists believe that after its implementation, the country's GDP will rise significantly.
” The proposal has garnered mixed reactions from political parties and civil society stakeholders. While proponents argue it will reduce election-related expenditure and ensure consistent governance, critics have raised concerns about its feasibility and implications for federalism. Key apprehensions include: Operational complexity : Managing logistics and security for simultaneous elections in a country as diverse and populous as India.
Federal concerns : Potential erosion of state autonomy in a centralised electoral framework. Legal hurdles : Amending multiple Constitutional provisions and aligning state election schedules with national timelines. Opposition parties have called the initiative an attempt by the BJP to consolidate power, citing apprehensions about the dilution of regional voices in a synchronised electoral model.
The winter session of Parliament, which commenced on 25 November and runs until 20 December, provides a crucial window for the Modi government to push the Bill forward. Political analysts view the move as part of a broader strategy to set the stage for a nationwide debate on electoral reforms. If the Bill clears Parliamentary scrutiny, it could mark the beginning of a profound shift.
However, the government faces an arduous task of addressing Opposition concerns, building a national consensus, and ensuring seamless implementation. The Bill’s fate will depend on its reception in Parliament and the broader political discourse it sparks in the coming weeks. As the debate unfolds, the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative will test not only the Modi government’s legislative acumen but also its ability to navigate India’s complex political landscape.
Opposition reaction on proposal Congress MP K. Suresh said, "If the government wants to pass the One Nation One Election Bill, they should invite all political parties and state governments also since it is a national issue. Some consensus should be arrived at.
But the government is going to introduce the Bill without any discussion with the states and political parties. From the beginning, our stand on One Nation One Election has been clear. The government should explain why they want the Bill.
" "If there is one nation, one election, then what happens if a government finds itself in the minority midway (through its term)? Won't there be any mid-term election?" Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh asked. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "We will wait for the introduction of the Bill in the Parliament. How will it be implemented, what will be the expense, how many more EVMs will be installed and how will all the arrangements be made.
It is a long procedure". Follow us on: Facebook , Twitter , Google News , Instagram Join our official telegram channel ( @nationalherald ) and stay updated with the latest headlines.
