Tue Dec 17 10:00:00 UTC 2024: **Former President Kovind Endorses ‘One Nation, One Election’ Proposal**
KOLKATA – Former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has voiced strong support for the proposed “One Nation, One Election” system, arguing it would significantly boost the country’s electoral process and economic growth. Speaking at an event organized by an Adivasi organization in Kolkata, Kovind stated that holding simultaneous elections would alleviate voter fatigue and streamline the process.
Kovind highlighted that the current system, where elections are held throughout the year, leads to voters becoming disillusioned with the constant campaigning. He believes that simultaneous elections would free up time and resources, leading to a projected 1.5% increase in GDP. This, he claimed, could accelerate India’s economic growth, potentially placing it among the top three or four global economic powers.
The former president’s comments are particularly significant given the recent introduction of a bill in Parliament concerning the matter. He emphasized the comprehensive report compiled by a high-level committee, encompassing 18,000 pages of information readily accessible online. This report includes consultations with various political parties and election officials.
Kovind suggested that simultaneous elections would allow elected officials to focus more on governance and development, rather than constantly campaigning. The continuous election cycle, he argued, makes it difficult for leaders to deliver on their promises and fosters voter apathy. He expressed confidence that the proposed system, if implemented by 2029-30, would create a more efficient and effective electoral system beneficial to both citizens and the nation’s economy.
First Piper 