New Delhi, December 9: The Union government is expected to table the "One Nation, One Election" bill during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, as per reports citing sources.
The initiative, a key BJP-led government promise since 2014, seeks to synchronize national, state, and local elections. A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) will reportedly review the bill, aiming to engage political parties, state assembly speakers, experts, and civil society to build consensus.
High-Level Panel Review: Chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, the panel submitted an 18,626-page report, recommending phased implementation starting with synchronized Lok Sabha and state elections.
Proposed Reforms: Suggestions include a unified voter ID system, a common electoral roll, and 18 constitutional amendments. Most amendments need parliamentary approval, with some requiring state ratification.
Timeline: If not introduced this session, the bill may be deferred to the Budget Session.
Support & Opposition: While 32 of 47 political parties consulted by the Kovind panel supported the idea, opposition parties, including Congress and TMC, have criticized the proposal as undermining democracy.
The bill has sparked debate over governance efficiency versus potential risks to federalism and regional representation.
