The Union Cabinet has given its nod to the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal, sources revealed on Thursday. A comprehensive bill is expected to be introduced during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, signalling a major push by the government toward simultaneous elections across India.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a three-line whip to all its Members of Parliament, instructing them to ensure their presence in the House on December 13 and 14 for discussions on key legislative matters, according to sources.
Meanwhile, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan made a strong case for the initiative during an event at the International Gita Festival in Kurukshetra. Chouhan highlighted the challenges posed by frequent elections, asserting that they disrupt the nation’s progress.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is marching towards becoming a global leader—‘Vishwa Guru’—and the whole world acknowledges it,” Chouhan remarked. However, he stressed that the constant election cycle acts as a significant hurdle. “From Lok Sabha to Assembly elections, and from state polls to local body elections, the country remains in poll mode throughout the year,” he said.
The government’s move follows the recommendations of a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. The committee’s report advocates simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies to streamline governance and curb the disruptions caused by frequent elections.
In September, the government formally accepted the recommendations and has since been working toward implementing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative in a phased manner. The bill is anticipated to propose a timeline and framework for aligning elections, a move expected to reshape the country’s electoral landscape.
The Cabinet’s approval and the imminent introduction of the bill underline the government’s commitment to the proposal, which has been a key agenda item for the current administration.
