Arjun Ram Meghwal introduces controversial 'one nation, one election' bill today
- A constitutional amendment bill for simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections was introduced.
- The bill will be examined by a Joint Committee of Parliament for wider discussions and consultations.
- This legislative move aims to streamline the electoral process in India and has garnered mixed support from political parties.
On December 17, 2024, the Indian Parliament's Lok Sabha agenda included the introduction of a significant constitutional amendment bill aimed at holding Lok Sabha and state assembly elections simultaneously. This move, known as the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, was introduced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Following the introduction, Meghwal requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer the bill to a Joint Committee of Parliament, which would engage in wider consultations regarding the implications and details of the proposed legislation. The proposal aligns with recommendations made by a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, advocating for synchronized polls in India. Home Minister Amit Shah, a committee member, is expected to be present during the bill's introduction. The Joint Committee, comprising representatives from various political parties based on their parliamentary strength, will be tasked with analyzing the bill over an initial tenure of 90 days, subject to possible extensions. Historically, India conducted simultaneous elections between 1951 and 1967, and the idea of holding synchronized polls has resurfaced in discussions since 1983, with various governmental and parliamentary committees endorsing the concept. In recent discussions, 32 political parties have expressed support for the initiative, while 15 opposed it. The successful passage of this bill could significantly alter the electoral landscape in India, facilitating a streamlined election process and potential cost savings for the Indian government. Additionally, Minister Meghwal plans to introduce the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to unify the electoral processes for the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, Puducherry, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The decision to pursue simultaneous elections reflects the current government's desire to simplify the electoral framework in India while addressing public concerns regarding the frequency and cost of elections.