In a bid to explore the possibility of simultaneous elections across India, the committee on ‘One Nation, One Election,’ headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind, has actively solicited suggestions from the public. The committee, formed in September last year, has extended an invitation to citizens to propose changes within the existing legal and administrative framework to enable synchronized elections throughout the nation.
The committee’s public notification encourages individuals to submit written suggestions through the official website, onoe.gov.in, or via email at sc-hlc@gov.in. Emphasizing the importance of public participation, the committee has set a deadline of January 15 for the submission of suggestions, all of which will be reviewed and considered in the committee’s proceedings.
In its efforts to gather comprehensive perspectives, the committee had earlier reached out to six national political parties, 33 state parties, and seven registered unrecognised parties, seeking their viewpoints and a consensus on a feasible timeline for implementing simultaneous polls. Notably, the panel had sent a reminder to these entities urging a collaborative discussion on the proposed idea.
Recently, the committee convened its second meeting, engaging with members of the Law Commission, which is independently examining the feasibility and implications of holding simultaneous elections. The committee’s mandate, as outlined in its terms of reference, encompasses evaluating and recommending amendments to the Constitution, Representation of the People Acts of 1950 and 1951, and other relevant laws to facilitate synchronized elections across various tiers of governance.
Expressing support for the concept of simultaneous elections, President Kovind has called upon all political parties to endorse the idea in the national interest. The committee comprises prominent figures such as Home Minister Amit Shah, former Rajya Sabha Opposition Leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, 15th Finance Commission Chairperson N K Singh, former Lok Sabha Secretary General Subhash C Kashyap, and former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari. Additionally, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal serves as a special invitee, while Law Secretary Nitin Chandra acts as the secretary of the committee.
The initiative to synchronize elections echoes a historical precedence, as elections in India were simultaneously conducted across the nation from its inception in 1952 until 1967. With an aim to streamline and harmonize the electoral process, the committee seeks to navigate legal and procedural adjustments to make simultaneous polls a reality.
The committee’s proactive engagement with stakeholders and the public underscores the significance of fostering a consensus-driven approach towards this transformative electoral reform, aimed at strengthening the democratic fabric of the country.
Sources By Agencies
