The government is preparing to introduce the much-anticipated 'One Country, One Election' Bill, which aims to synchronise elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. According to sources, the bill may be tabled either in the ongoing session of Parliament or the next, following cabinet approval based on the recommendations of a committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. This development signals the government’s determination to push forward with what it sees as a transformative reform for India’s electoral process.
In a move to ensure comprehensive deliberations and broad-based consensus, the government plans to refer the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The JPC will consult representatives from all political parties, state assemblies, and other stakeholders. The emphasis will be on achieving collective agreement for such a significant electoral reform. Speakers from all state assemblies will also be invited to share their insights, alongside intellectuals, civil society members, and experts. Additionally, public input will be sought, reflecting the government's commitment to fostering inclusivity and transparency in the legislative process.
The bill aims to streamline the country’s electoral calendar, significantly reducing costs, logistical challenges, and the frequent disruptions caused by staggered elections. The synchronised election model, according to proponents, would minimise the financial burden of conducting separate elections, allow governments to focus on governance rather than perpetual election cycles, enhance voter turnout by simplifying the process for citizens, and foster administrative efficiency by aligning state and central elections.
While the government remains optimistic, the proposal is likely to spark robust political debate. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate criticized the initiative, describing it as a "direct assault on the Constitution" and a "hot air balloon" that would fade away. Opposition parties have raised concerns over the impact of simultaneous elections on federalism and the autonomy of state governments. Logistical challenges, including managing polling stations, deployment of personnel, and maintaining security across the country during a single election, are also expected to feature prominently in the deliberations.
BJP leader Gaurav Bhatia endorsed the proposal, arguing that it would save citizens' time and energy by allowing them to vote only once for both state and central governments. In contrast, opposition leaders fear it may centralise power and undermine the diversity of regional electoral dynamics. The government plans to address these concerns through detailed discussions in Parliament, the JPC, and consultations with experts. Potential challenges, such as constitutional amendments, logistical hurdles, and political implications, will be thoroughly examined. As the bill moves closer to introduction, its progress is likely to dominate the political discourse in the coming weeks. Whether the government can secure the required consensus remains to be seen, but the 'One Country, One Election' proposal undoubtedly represents a bold step toward reimagining India’s electoral landscape.
