Centre likely to introduce ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill during special Parliament session

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• Aug 31, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The 'One Nation, One Election' bill, which proposes the simultaneous holding of Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, may be introduced during...

Digital Desk: The 'One Nation, One Election' bill, which proposes the simultaneous holding of Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, may be introduced during Parliament's special session scheduled from September 18 to 22, according to reports. 

Currently, these elections are held at different times throughout the year, resulting in multiple election cycles each year. The 'One Nation, One Election' concept intends to hold all elections in a single cycle, maybe on the same day.

However, the proposal has faced criticism, particularly from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Earlier, in January, the AAP alleged that the ruling BJP was utilizing this concept to legitimize the "sale and purchase" of elected representatives under its "Operation Lotus." The party had also accused the BJP of transitioning from a parliamentary system to a presidential one. They suggested that if Lok Sabha and assembly elections were held concurrently, resource-rich parties may use financial and muscle power to dominate state issues, potentially affecting voter decisions.

The BJP, on the other hand, sees simultaneous elections as a means to speed up progress. Chief ministers from various BJP-ruled states have expressed concern about the disruption caused by frequent elections and the implementation of the model code of conduct, which impedes development activities. They push for talks with opposition-led state governments to look into the idea of holding simultaneous elections.

While the 'One Nation, One Election' bill aims to simplify the election process, it faces opposition and concerns about its potential impact on state issues and governance. The debate over this issue is likely to continue in political circles.