The ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill is scheduled to be presented in the Lok Sabha by Law Minister Arjun Meghwal on Tuesday, following its initial plan for discussion on December 16. Copies of the bill have already been circulated among Members of Parliament for their consideration. With the winter session of Parliament concluding on December 20, there is a narrow window for its introduction if it is not addressed on December 16. The Union Cabinet granted approval for the ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill on December 12, intending to introduce it during the current Winter Session. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has characterized this initiative as “historic,” citing its potential to lower costs and enhance governance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has frequently championed the concept of simultaneous elections, underscoring their importance. In contrast, opposition parties, such as the Trinamool Congress, have expressed apprehensions regarding this proposal, contending that it could undermine India’s federal structure, diminish the influence of regional parties, and centralize authority.
Despite these objections, the BJP argues that conducting simultaneous elections will facilitate governance and reduce electoral expenditures. Presently, the Cabinet’s approval pertains solely to the synchronization of Lok Sabha and legislative assembly elections, with elections for municipalities and panchayats excluded “for now,” although a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind has suggested their gradual inclusion. Concerns remain regarding the feasibility of executing simultaneous elections across India’s extensive and diverse regions, with critics pointing to potential logistical challenges that could emerge from such a large-scale electoral undertaking. The BJP continues to advocate for this approach as a means to improve governance efficiency while curtailing election-related costs, yet discussions persist regarding its practicality and possible ramifications for India’s political framework.
