Cabinet Approves ‘One Nation, One Election’; Bill Expected Next Week: 10 Points

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ plan and is set to introduce a bill during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, according to official sources quoted by reports.

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Cabinet Approves ‘One Nation, One Election’; Bill Expected Next Week: 10 Points

Cabinet Approves ‘One Nation, One Election’; Bill Expected Next Week: 10 Points

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ plan and is set to introduce a bill during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, according to official sources quoted by reports. The initiative, which was opposed by many including the Opposition parties and states, aims to synchronise elections across the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies, reducing the frequency of polls and ensuring smoother governance. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently argued that frequent elections disrupt national progress, calling for unified polls to enable seamless development. The concept has seen widespread discussions and consultations, with a high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind providing extensive recommendations.

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Here are the key highlights:

  1. Simultaneous elections were a norm in India between 1951 and 1967. However, they ceased due to constitutional amendments and political disruptions, prompting calls for their restoration to streamline governance.
  2. The Law Commission and Parliamentary Committees have repeatedly supported the concept. The Law Commission’s 170th report and the 79th Parliamentary Report proposed measures to implement simultaneous elections in phases.
  3. A high-level committee led by Ram Nath Kovind consulted diverse stakeholders, including political parties, legal experts, and economists. Out of 47 political parties consulted, 32 backed the initiative.
  4. Experts argue that simultaneous elections would reduce the economic burden of frequent polls. Organisations such as FICCI and ASSOCHAM noted the impact of asynchronous elections on inflation, fiscal health, and economic growth. However, the critics argue that the move is not practical in a democracy like India and stated that the aim of the government is to divert attention from real issues.
  5. The committee received significant public support, with 80% of 21,558 responses favouring the proposal. As per the government, citizens, organisations, and experts expressed enthusiasm for the potential benefits of unified polls.
  6. A two-phase approach is recommended. The first phase will synchronise Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, while the second will align municipal and panchayat polls within 100 days of general elections.
  7. A common electoral roll and single voter identification system are proposed to ensure uniformity across all levels of governance, simplifying the election process.
  8. Implementing ‘One Nation, One Election’ requires constitutional amendments but adheres to the Constitution’s spirit. The recommendations aim to minimise legislative changes for a smooth transition.
  9. Proponents argue that the move will foster social cohesion, enhance voter participation, and deepen democratic principles, addressing inefficiencies in the current system. On the other hand, the Opposition claimed that the ruling government is trying to dismantle the federal structure and the diverse nature of Indian democracy.
  10. The initiative, according to the government, underscores India’s aspirations for efficient governance, transparency, and streamlined electoral processes, aligning with the country’s developmental goals.