Union Cabinet approves recommendations of committee on ‘One Nation, One Election’

New Delhi, Sep 18: The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the recommendations of the high-level committee on simultaneous elections, chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. The decision supports the government’s push for the 'one nation, one election' initiative, aiming to synchronise elections for the Lok Sabha, state Assemblies, and local bodies.

Recommendations of the High-Level Committee

The idea of simultaneous elections isn't new. According to historical data:

Between 1951 and 1967, India held simultaneous elections.

The Law Commission's 170th report in 1999 recommended one election every five years for the Lok Sabha and all Legislative Assemblies.

A Parliamentary Committee report in 2015 suggested conducting elections in two phases.

The Kovind-led committee consulted political parties, experts, and a wide range of stakeholders, receiving extensive feedback that showed considerable support for this move. The report is available online at onoe.gov.in.

Key Recommendations

Two-Phase Implementation: The Lok Sabha and Assembly elections should be held simultaneously in the first phase, with local body elections (panchayat and municipal polls) to follow within 100 days.

Common Electoral Roll: There will be a single electoral roll for all elections.

Nationwide Discussions: Detailed discussions across the country will be initiated, followed by the formation of an implementation group.

Government Push for 'One Nation, One Election'

The Cabinet's approval aligns with the BJP's 2019 and 2024 election manifesto. The party has long advocated for simultaneous elections, claiming it would reduce costs, streamline governance, and promote economic stability.

According to a report by NDTV, the proposal is likely to be implemented in the current term of Prime Minister Modi. Modi himself reiterated the government's commitment during his Independence Day address. However, implementing this policy requires amending at least six sections of the Constitution, requiring a two-thirds majority in Parliament, followed by ratification by all states and Union Territories. Although the BJP holds a majority in both Houses, it still needs 52 votes in the Rajya Sabha and 72 in the Lok Sabha to reach the required threshold.

NDTV also noted that the panel included significant political and judicial figures, such as former Supreme Court Chief Justices, who largely backed the measure. Supporters argue that simultaneous elections simplify the process for voters and businesses, who would be able to make decisions without fear of policy changes due to frequent elections.

Opposition’s Concerns

The Congress, along with 15 other opposition parties, has expressed concerns. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge described the proposal as impractical and a distraction from critical issues. Senior leader P Chidambaram also noted that implementing the system would require at least five constitutional amendments.

Few regional political parties have raised concerns over the limited resources available to highlight local issues if national campaigns dominate elections.

The concept of “One Nation, One Election” means that all Indians would vote in Lok Sabha, Assembly, and local body elections in the same year, although possibly on different dates.

Despite opposition, NDTV reports that Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasised widespread public support for the proposal. A single voter list and synchronising elections at all levels will, according to supporters, avoid frequent disruptions, prevent policy paralysis, and ensure continuity in governance.

While the debate continues, the government’s decision to move forward with simultaneous elections marks a big step towards restructuring India’s electoral system.