Extension of the tenure of the Parliamentary Committee examining the ‘One Nation – One Election’ proposal

Introduction

In India, elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies are held at different times, which affects administrative costs and governance efficiency. Based on this concern, the idea of “One Nation – One Election” (Simultaneous Elections) has been proposed. To implement this, constitutional amendments are necessary.

1. Recent Developments

The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Amendment Bill have been introduced. To examine these bills, a 39-member Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has been constituted. Chairperson: P. P. Chaudhary. The tenure of the committee has been extended until the 2026 Monsoon Session.

2. What is “One Nation One Election”?

It refers to conducting elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies simultaneously.

3. Constitutional Link (Static Link)

To implement this idea, amendments are required in the following key Articles:

Article 83(2) – Duration of Lok Sabha
Article 172 – Duration of State Legislative Assemblies
Article 356 – President’s Rule
Article 324 – Powers of the Election Commission

This may impact the Federal Structure. The Basic Structure Doctrine – Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) is crucial in this context.

4. Arguments in Favour

✔ Reduction in Costs – Election expenditure will decrease
✔ Improved Administrative Efficiency – Delays due to Model Code of Conduct (MCC) can be avoided
✔ Stable Governance – Enhances policy stability

5. Challenges and Criticisms

✔ Federal Concerns – May affect state autonomy
✔ Political Representation – State-specific issues may be overshadowed
✔ Practical Difficulties – What if a government falls prematurely?
✔ Political Bias Risk – Possibility of dominance by a single party

6. Importance of the Committee

Opinions from political, legal, and economic experts are being collected. Former Supreme Court judges and economists are participating. This will help in achieving legal and political consensus.

Conclusion / Way Forward

“One Nation One Election” is a major reform in India’s electoral system. While it may improve efficiency, it is essential to ensure that federalism and democratic representation are not compromised. Extensive consultation and structural reforms are necessary.