Wed Sep 18 15:29:53 UTC 2024: ## Opposition Parties Slam One Nation One Election as “Political Stunt”

**New Delhi:** Several opposition parties have condemned the Union Cabinet’s approval of the “One Nation One Election” proposal, calling it a political stunt aimed at destroying regional parties and undermining democracy.

The proposal, which aims to hold simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, received approval after a high-level committee, headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind, submitted its report to the Cabinet.

Opposition leaders accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to manipulate the Constitution and stifle democratic accountability.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sandeep Pathak labeled the proposal a “jumla” (false promise) and criticized the BJP’s inability to conduct elections in Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir simultaneously. He also questioned the BJP’s plans for governance if a state government collapses mid-term.

RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari echoed similar sentiments, calling the proposal a “political stunt” designed to eliminate regional parties. He warned of a potential constitutional crisis if implemented.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge expressed concern that “One Nation One Election” could not work in a democracy, emphasizing the importance of holding elections as and when necessary.

JMM MP Mahua Maji alleged that the BJP’s ultimate goal was to establish one-party rule and cited recent instances of regional party fragmentation as evidence.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi argued that the proposal would erode federalism and compromise democracy. He stressed that regular elections are essential for democratic accountability.

The Kovind-led committee’s report, spanning 18,626 pages, recommended simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as a first step. It proposed synchronizing municipal and panchayat elections with national and state elections, requiring ratification by a majority of states.

Sources suggest that a bill for holding simultaneous polls will likely be introduced during the upcoming winter session of Parliament.

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