New Delhi, December 16, 2024: The bill on “one nation, one election” is expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17, 2024, during the ongoing winter session of Parliament. This bill is based on the recommendations of a committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind. If passed, it will set the stage for simultaneous elections across the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities, and panchayats. The proposal aims to streamline the election process and reduce the frequency of elections, a measure that the government believes will allow the country to progress without the interruptions of frequent elections.
The bill is likely to be referred to a joint parliamentary committee for further scrutiny, including consultations with various stakeholders such as political parties, state governments, and civil society groups. Several constitutional amendments are also part of the proposal, with the government pushing for their implementation within the current term. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly advocated for the move, arguing that it will ensure a more stable governance structure and improve efficiency in the country’s political processes.
However, the proposal has sparked varied reactions from political leaders. While some have expressed support, others, like Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, have criticized it as impractical, citing concerns about the challenges of implementing simultaneous elections. The debate surrounding the logistics and potential consequences of this proposal continues to unfold, but it marks a significant step towards achieving the government’s vision of “one nation, one election.”
