India Eyes Simultaneous Elections: Key Bill Approved by Union Cabinet

In a significant move, the Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the 'One Nation, One Election' bill, which aims to conduct simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, followed by urban body and panchayat polls within 100 days.

The government expects to table the bill in the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament and is looking to form consensus on the bill. The 'One Nation, One Election' plan could involve at least six bills to amend the Constitution and will require a two-thirds majority in parliament for approval.

According to the report of the high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, simultaneous elections would enhance policy stability, reduce voter fatigue, and improve voter turnout. The comprehensive report, spanning over 18,626 pages, is the result of extensive consultations with various stakeholders, experts, and research conducted over 191 days.

The government has been advocating for simultaneous elections to avoid the inefficiencies of frequent elections, which often impede policy decisions. Critics highlight logistical challenges faced by the poll commission in conducting state elections in multiple phases.

While some Opposition parties have expressed concerns about the impracticality of implementing such a plan, the government is hoping that the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) would help facilitate detailed discussions on the bill and lead to a consensus.

The 'One Nation, One Election' bill marks an effort towards simplification of electoral processes in India, aiming to bring more stability to the country's democratic process.