The issue of ‘One Nation One Election’ has long been debated in Indian politics. Former President Ram Nath Kovind’s team has submitted its report to President Droupadi Murmu, advancing this agenda. The report emphasizes the need and proposes nationwide simultaneous elections to protect the economy and society from frequent polls.
The high-level Committee, established by the central government in September of the previous year, studied the viability of ‘one nation, one election’ and made proposals for synchronized polls nationwide. This effort aims to unify Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states to reduce India’s electoral cycle.
Until 1967, simultaneous elections were common, although defections, dismissals, and government dissolutions disrupted them. The committee conducted a 191-day study and consultation process with stakeholders and professionals to address these issues. These efforts resulted in an 18,626-page report with observations and proposals to change the electoral landscape.
There are two ways to view the report’s details. First, go to onoe.gov.in/HLC-Report. Users can also use smartphone cameras or QR code scanning programs to view the report via a QR code.
The committee comprised prominent personalities like Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, and DPAP leader Gulam Nabi Azad, representing varied perspectives and skills. They presented the report to President Droupadi Murmu to emphasize the need and necessity of the reforms.
The committee’s participation with political party officials showed its inclusion. BJP, Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party, Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), Republican Party of India (RPI), and Apna Dal members provided valuable insights and suggestions during the deliberation.
The ‘One Nation One Election’ report signifies a turning point in Indian electoral politics, marking a change toward increased efficiency, stability, and coherence in democracy. The goal of creating a more robust electoral structure that can handle the intricacies of a diverse and vibrant nation remains vital, notwithstanding problems and concerns. One thing is certain as stakeholders and individuals consider the consequences of these recommendations: electoral change is happening, driven by a collaborative commitment to realize the democratic values in the Indian constitution.
Quick guide on how to access One Nation, One Election report online
There are two ways to access the Report:
- Visit the website onoe.gov.in/HLC-Report
- Scan the QR Code using your smartphone camera or a QR code scanning app. This will redirect you to the Report.
