SIMULTANEOUS POLLS ADVOCACY BY RAM NATH KOVIND

Why in the News?

  • Shri Ram Nath Kovind, leading the ‘one nation, one election’ committee, underscores benefits for the public and ruling party, regardless of affiliation.
  • Initiative receives bipartisan call, prioritizing national interest.
Source: Times of India
One Nation, One Election (ONOE)

One Nation, One Election (ONOE) is a proposal under consideration by the Government of India to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament) and all state assemblies. It intends to hold these elections simultaneously, either on a single day or within a specific time frame.

Non-Partisan Initiative

  • Kovind stresses non-discrimination among parties; initiative’s core focus is public welfare.
  • Urges unanimous positive support transcending party lines.

Economic and Developmental Focus

  • Funds saved through simultaneous polls can fuel crucial developmental projects.
  • Emphasizes economic prudence and efficient resource utilization.

Committee Progress and Public Involvement

  • Committee actively seeks political parties’ suggestions, drawing on prior expressions of support.
  • Comprises prominent figures, including Amit Shah and Arjun Ram Meghwal.

 Historical Context and Future Prospects

  • Past committee reports supporting ‘one nation, one election’ cited.
  • Committee committed to providing government recommendations.

 Ongoing Deliberations and Next Steps

  • Committee’s dedication to inclusive solution evident.

 Upcoming Committee Actions

  • Ongoing engagement with stakeholders integral to committee’s efforts.
  • Reflects a comprehensive approach for simultaneous elections in India.