Mon Sep 16 14:43:09 UTC 2024: ## One Nation, One Election: Modi Government Set to Implement Key Poll Promise

**New Delhi:** The BJP-led NDA government is expected to implement the highly debated “One Nation, One Election” (ONOE) system during its current tenure, fulfilling a key promise made in its election manifesto. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had strongly advocated for the simultaneous conduct of parliamentary, assembly, and local body elections during his Independence Day address last month, urging all political parties to join hands to make it a reality.

The government believes that ONOE will curb excessive election-related spending, end the continuous election cycle, and allow for a stronger focus on governance. However, critics argue that the move could homogenize India’s political diversity and overlook regional concerns.

In September 2023, a panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind was established to study the feasibility of implementing simultaneous elections. After extensive consultations and research, the panel submitted its report to President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024.

The Kovind panel recommended simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as the first step, followed by local body polls within 100 days. The report also suggested a new Article 82A in the Constitution, which would ensure the term of all legislative assemblies ends concurrently with the Lok Sabha term.

The panel proposed several amendments to the Constitution, including the creation of a single electoral roll and Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC) by the Election Commission of India. It also proposed an “Implementation Group” to oversee the execution of the recommendations.

However, the concept of ONOE has been met with strong opposition from several political parties, including the Congress, the Left parties, and the Trinamool Congress. They argue that it would require at least five constitutional amendments and is not possible under the current framework. Congress leader P Chidambaram stated that PM Modi lacks the necessary numbers in Parliament to push through these amendments.

The INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, has categorically opposed the ONOE system. As the NDA government enters its 100th day in office, the implementation of this ambitious policy remains a significant political challenge.

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