Simultaneous elections would lead to a “fundamental transformation” in the electoral process and overall governance, a high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind, recommended in its over 18,000-page report on ‘One Nation One Election’.
Sources said the panel recommended amending the Constitution so elections for the Lok Sabha, all state assemblies and local bodies can be held by 2029.
The panel submitted the report to President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
The report suggested that there is a unanimous opinion based on suggestions from parties, experts and other stakeholders, that there should be simultaneous elections in the country. It added that the Centre must develop a legally tenable mechanism to restore the cycle of simultaneous elections.
Here are top 5 highlights from the extensive One Nation One Election report:
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On examination of the constitutional and legal issues associated with simultaneous elections, the Ram Nath Kovind-led committee suggested an alternative enabling framework to make simultaneous elections tenable.
The panel also recommended constitutional amendments so elections for the Lok Sabha, all state assemblies and local bodies can be held by 2029.
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Disruptions to governance and policy paralysis resulting from the application of the Model Code of Conduct and its adverse impact on economic growth will be mitigated.
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The committee suggested that, in the first step, simultaneous elections of Lok Sabha and State Assembly be held. Then, the election of municipalities and panchayats will be synchronised in such a way that it is held within 100 days of the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections.
The committee also recommended adjusting the terms of legislative assemblies in three phases over the next five years.
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In the case of a hung House, or no-confidence motion, fresh elections can be held for the remainder of the five-year tenure.
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The committee recognised the significance of the single electoral roll and single elector’s photo identity card (EPIC) (voter card) for elections to all three tiers of the Indian government – Centre (Lok Sabha), State (Legislative Assembly) and local (muncipalities and panchayats) to safeguard the rights of voters.
Aisha Patel is a dedicated Indian correspondent with a deep understanding of the nation’s diverse affairs. With a background in Indian culture, politics, and current events, she provides in-depth analysis and timely reporting on domestic issues within India.
