The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, popularly known as the “One Nation, One Election” Bill, is set to be introduced in the Lok Sabha today. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal will present the Bill, which aims to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections across the country. Following its introduction, Meghwal is expected to request Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer the Bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further consultations.
What the Bill Proposes
The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to implement simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Such a synchronized election process aims to streamline the electoral cycle, reduce the frequency of elections, and minimize associated administrative and financial burdens.
The agenda for the day also includes the introduction of the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This Bill focuses on aligning the electoral processes for union territories like Jammu and Kashmir, Puducherry, and the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.
Key Developments and Process
According to officials, the joint committee will be formed on a pro-rata basis, ensuring representation from various political parties in proportion to their parliamentary strength. As the largest party in Parliament, the BJP will chair the committee and have significant representation.
The proposed committee will initially have a 90-day tenure, with provisions for possible extensions to allow for comprehensive deliberations. The Speaker is likely to announce the composition of the committee by the end of the day.
High-Level Recommendations
The Bill aligns with the recommendations made by a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. The committee, which included Union Home Minister Amit Shah, suggested a phased implementation of simultaneous elections, covering Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and eventually local body elections.
During the consultation process, 32 political parties expressed support for the idea of One Nation, One Election, while 15 parties opposed it.
Historical Context
Simultaneous elections were the norm in India between 1951 and 1967, after which the electoral schedules of states and the central government began to diverge due to the dissolution of various assemblies. The concept has since resurfaced in multiple reports and discussions, starting as early as 1983, with many experts advocating a return to this synchronized electoral model.
Why It Matters
The Bill is viewed as a transformative step toward reducing the frequent disruptions caused by elections, cutting down costs, and fostering better governance. However, it also faces challenges, particularly concerning its feasibility in a diverse and federal democracy like India. Critics argue that aligning elections may centralize power and undermine regional autonomy.
Next Steps
The introduction of the Bill in the Lok Sabha marks the first step in a potentially lengthy legislative process. By referring the Bill to a Joint Committee, the government aims to ensure broader consultations with lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public.
The Union Cabinet has already approved both Bills, signaling strong government intent to push forward with the simultaneous election agenda. If implemented, this could significantly alter India’s electoral landscape, bringing a historic reform to the country’s democratic process.