On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave its approval to the One Nation One Poll panel report led by former President Ram Nath Kovind. This approval marks a significant step towards the implementation of simultaneous elections in India, a concept aimed at streamlining the electoral process across the country.
The high-level committee, which was established in September 2023, was tasked with expediting the transition to holding simultaneous elections. The panel, under Kovind’s leadership, submitted an extensive 18,626-page report in March 2024. This comprehensive document is the result of 191 days of rigorous consultations with stakeholders, experts, and extensive research.
The approval from the Union Cabinet came shortly after Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement on Tuesday. Shah emphasized that the government intends to implement the One Nation One Poll system within the next five years. During a press conference, Shah assured that the initiative would be realized within the current government’s tenure, underscoring the administration’s commitment to reforming the electoral process.
The One Nation One Poll initiative seeks to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which are currently held at different times. Proponents argue that this system will reduce the costs associated with conducting multiple elections, enhance governance efficiency, and minimize disruptions in the legislative process.
The approval of the panel’s report is a critical development in the pursuit of this electoral reform. The government’s endorsement signals a move towards a more streamlined and cost-effective approach to elections, aiming to bolster the overall efficacy of India’s democratic process. The next steps will involve legislative changes and logistical preparations to bring this ambitious proposal to fruition.