One Nation, One Election” Bill Set to Unify Elections Across India

New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at simplifying election processes in India, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet has given its approval for the "One Nation, One Election" bill, set to be tabled in Parliament during the ongoing Winter Session.

The long-awaited legislation seeks to bring parliamentary and state assembly elections, as well as local body polls, under a single umbrella. The government plans to refer the bill to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further scrutiny once it is tabled.

As initially proposed, the "One Nation, One Election" aims to conduct simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies in phases. In March this year, a high-level panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted its report on the same topic, recommending coordinated polls as the first step.

The Covin committee's recommendations propose holding synchronized Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, followed by phased local body polls within 100 days. The proposed two-phase poll system in India is also part of the panel's report.

According to former President Kovind, a consensus must be built on this "One Nation, One Election" initiative as it transcends party interests and has far-reaching implications for the nation as a whole.

This move could also have a positive impact on India's economy, with economists predicting an increase in GDP of 1-1.5 percent after the bill is implemented.

The panel suggested amendments to specific articles of the Constitution, including Article 83, which regulates Lok Sabha term, and Article 172, covering state Assembly longevity.

As Parliament prepares for this critical legislation, stay tuned for further updates on the passage of the "One Nation, One Election" Bill.