A report has highlighted that a significant 80% of Indians are in favor of conducting Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections simultaneously, reflecting a growing consensus among the populace. The report, compiled under the chairmanship of former President Ram Nath Kovind, was submitted to President Draupadi Murmu on Thursday.
The committee suggests that Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections should be held concurrently, followed by local body elections within 100 days thereafter. While post-independence India initially saw Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections synchronized, they gradually diverged due to various reasons. The exhaustive report, crafted over 191 days, incorporated inputs from political parties, jurists, economists, and various stakeholders.
The proposed amendment to Article 325 of the Constitution, aimed at creating a single electoral roll for all elections, is recommended in the report. Additionally, amendments to Articles 82(k), 83, and 172 are suggested to streamline the electoral process. According to the committee’s recommendations, elections for both Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha will occur once every five years. However, in case of premature dissolution, midterm elections will only be held for the remainder of the term, ensuring simultaneous elections at both levels.
Legal experts express concerns regarding potential challenges faced by the Election Commission if this initiative is implemented. Amendments to multiple articles, including Articles 83 (tenure of Parliament), 85 (dissolution of Lok Sabha by President), 172 (duration of State Legislatures), and 174 (dissolution of State Legislatures), along with Article 356 (President’s rule), are suggested to facilitate the proposed reforms.
Benefits of One Nation One Election
The report underscores that frequent elections disrupt governance and entail substantial financial and logistical burdens. Conducting simultaneous elections would facilitate better governance and streamline the electoral process. The Election Commission has provided estimates of logistical requirements and costs associated with simultaneous elections, urging the government to consider implementing these recommendations. The report also highlights the increased awareness among Indian voters, who now cast their ballots based on issues affecting both Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha.
