Sun Sep 15 16:33:20 UTC 2024: ## One Nation, One Election: Modi Government Pushes Ahead with Controversial Plan
**New Delhi:** The Narendra Modi government is set to implement the long-discussed “One Country One Election” policy, aiming to hold simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies. This ambitious plan, mentioned by PM Modi in his Independence Day speech, aims to streamline elections and reduce their impact on governance.
A committee headed by former President Ramnath Kovind has submitted its report, recommending the phased implementation. The first step will be synchronizing Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, followed by synchronized local body polls within 100 days. The Law Commission is also expected to endorse the proposal, suggesting simultaneous polls across all tiers of government starting in 2029. The proposal also includes provisions for unity governments in case of hung houses or no-confidence motions.
While the BJP has championed the initiative and expressed confidence in achieving consensus, the Opposition remains staunchly against it, raising concerns about constitutional issues. The plan’s practical challenges include syncing electoral cycles, minimizing disruption to governance, and navigating potential issues arising from dissolved houses, President’s Rule, or hung assemblies.
Regional parties have voiced concerns that their limited resources may be overwhelmed by the national focus on Lok Sabha elections, hindering their ability to highlight local issues. Additionally, the recurrent cost of procuring Electronic Voting Machines, estimated at Rs 10,000 crore every 15 years, is a cause for concern.
The “One Nation, One Election” initiative remains a highly contested proposal, with the government determined to implement it despite significant opposition and unresolved challenges.
First Piper 