The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The high-level panel chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted a comprehensive report to President Droupadi Murmu, advocating for the phased implementation of simultaneous elections in India. This ambitious proposal seeks to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections in the initial phase, followed by unified local body polls within 100 days, aiming to streamline the electoral process across the nation.
Spanning over 18,000 pages, the committee’s report outlines a vision for fostering development, enhancing social cohesion, and strengthening the democratic fabric of India. It suggests that simultaneous elections could significantly alleviate the recurring logistical and financial burdens associated with conducting multiple electoral exercises throughout the year.
Key recommendations include provisions for conducting new Lok Sabha elections in cases of a hung parliament, no-confidence motions, or similar scenarios, with the newly elected House serving for the remainder of the preceding term. Similar adjustments are proposed for state assemblies to align their terms with the Lok Sabha’s cycle.
The panel calls for constitutional amendments to Articles 83 and 172, concerning the duration of the Houses of Parliament and state legislatures, respectively, to implement these changes. It emphasizes that these amendments would not require ratification by the states.
Additionally, the committee proposes the creation of a common electoral roll and unified voter ID cards, to be managed by the Election Commission of India in collaboration with state election authorities. This would necessitate amendments to Article 325, which deals with the electoral roll.
The report, developed after extensive consultations and research over 191 days, reflects a concerted effort to align the proposed reforms with constitutional principles while minimizing the need for extensive constitutional amendments. The committee, comprising notable figures including Home Minister Amit Shah and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, has presented a blueprint aimed at revitalizing India’s electoral landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has long championed the concept of ‘one nation, one election,’ viewing it as a critical step towards national development and governance efficiency. The Kovind panel’s recommendations mark a significant stride towards realizing this vision, potentially transforming India’s electoral dynamics and governance model.
