Union Cabinet Approves ‘One Nation One Election’ Proposal: Key Step Towards Simultaneous Polls
Desk Report, September 18, 2024: The Union Cabinet has taken a major step toward implementing simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. On Wednesday, the Cabinet approved the proposal for “One Nation One Election.” This bill, aimed at streamlining the election process, is set to be introduced in the upcoming winter session of Parliament.
The decision comes after a high-level committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, submitted a detailed report. The committee was formed by the Modi government to explore the possibility of holding simultaneous polls, a key promise in the BJP’s Lok Sabha election manifesto. The committee’s report, spanning 18,626 pages, was handed over to the President in March.
As per the report, the first phase of the plan involves synchronizing the elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Importantly, this phase does not require approval from the states for any constitutional amendments. However, the second phase will involve aligning municipal and panchayat elections with these national and state elections. This step will need approval from at least half of the states.
To make “One Nation One Election” a reality, the committee has proposed 18 constitutional amendments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the need for simultaneous elections, stating that frequent elections are hindering national progress. In his recent Independence Day speech, he highlighted this issue once again.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also confirmed that the “One Nation One Election” initiative will be implemented within the NDA’s current term. While the proposal has gained support from NDA allies like JD(U) and Chirag Paswan’s party, several opposition parties, including Congress, AAP, and Shiv Sena (UBT), have raised concerns. They argue that simultaneous elections could favor the ruling party.
This marks a significant shift in India’s electoral process, aiming to reduce the frequency of elections and streamline governance. The winter session of Parliament is expected to witness key debates and discussions as the bill moves forward.
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The Cabinet has accepted the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections. I compliment our former President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind Ji for spearheading this effort and consulting a wide range of stakeholders.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 18, 2024
This is an important step towards making our…
