New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bill, paving the way for simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections. The bill is expected to be tabled during the Winter Session of Parliament and will be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), according to sources.
The proposal to synchronize elections has been a key priority for the government. In September, the Union Cabinet endorsed recommendations made by a high-powered committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the initiative, calling it a significant step towards strengthening democracy.
The committee’s report suggests conducting concurrent elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as the first phase, followed by synchronized local body polls within 100 days.
Former President Kovind emphasized the need for consensus on the initiative during a statement on Wednesday. “This issue is not in the interest of any party but the nation. Economists believe that the implementation of ‘One Nation, One Election’ will boost the GDP by 1-1.5 per cent. It will be a game-changer,” he said.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also expressed strong support for the proposal, citing the wastage of time and resources caused by frequent elections. “Elections disrupt governance, as Prime Ministers, Chief Ministers, and officials are engaged in campaigning, halting developmental activities. Simultaneous elections will address this issue effectively,” Chouhan said.
The government’s push for this landmark reform aims to streamline the election process, reduce costs, and enhance governance. However, building a political consensus will be critical as the proposal moves forward in Parliament.