In an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Union Home Minister Amit Shah discussed the feasibility of implementing 'One Nation One Election' by 2029, as outlined in the BJP's manifesto.
Shah emphasized that the concept of One Nation One Election is not new to India, highlighting its historical precedent for two decades. However, he acknowledged that the practice faced challenges following mid-term polls called by Indira Gandhi in 1971, resulting in a disruption of poll schedules nationwide.
According to Shah, the decision on whether to synchronize State Assembly and Lok Sabha elections rests with the public. He noted that the BJP government formed a committee, which, after consulting various stakeholders, including political parties, judges, and legal experts, recommended the adoption of One Nation One Election. The proposed system would allocate the subsequent five years post-election for national development initiatives.
Addressing concerns about the BJP's alleged intention to centralize local elections, Shah dismissed such claims as baseless. He asserted that citizens are capable of making informed decisions and emphasized that separate candidates, ballot boxes, and election manifestos would mitigate confusion.
Shah underscored the potential benefits of simultaneous elections, including cost savings and enhanced efficiency, which would alleviate the burden on both government resources and public time.
The concept of One Nation, One Election entails holding elections for the Lok Sabha and all state assemblies concurrently, aiming to streamline the electoral process. Presently, elections for state assemblies and the Lok Sabha are conducted separately, typically following the conclusion of the incumbent government's five-year term or its dissolution under various circumstances.
