Fri Dec 13 21:24:01 UTC 2024: ## Kovind Advocates for Simultaneous Elections, Citing Economic Benefits and Historical Precedent
**New Delhi, India** – Former President Ram Nath Kovind, in his first interview since leaving office, has strongly advocated for the adoption of simultaneous elections in India. Speaking at Agenda Aaj Tak, Kovind, who chaired the high-level committee on the subject, argued that the proposal, far from being a BJP initiative, is rooted in India’s electoral history, referencing the practice between 1952 and 1967.
Kovind highlighted the significant economic benefits of simultaneous elections, citing a study conducted by the committee which estimates current election costs at ₹5-5.5 lakh crore. He asserted that simultaneous polls could reduce this cost to a mere ₹50,000 crore, freeing up resources that could boost GDP growth by 1-1.5 percent, curb inflation, and fuel industrial development.
He emphasized the disruption caused by frequent elections, using Rajasthan as a case study. The state’s recent election cycle, he noted, resulted in a prolonged period of political uncertainty and a delay in addressing public concerns. This, he argued, is a consequence of the current system where four out of every five years are consumed by electoral processes.
Addressing concerns about the proposal’s constitutionality, Kovind countered that while the Constitution permits multiple elections, the current system is unjust to the people. He pointed to the Preamble’s commitment to justice, questioning whether the current system, with its constant cycle of elections, truly serves the interests of the masses.
Kovind refuted the notion that the proposal is a BJP-driven agenda, stating that it reflects the vision of India’s founding fathers. He underscored the committee’s independent nature, emphasizing that the report was submitted to the President, representing a service to the nation.
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