The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday cleared a landmark constitutional amendment bill to move forward with the “one nation, one poll” initiative. This proposal seeks to harmonize elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies to streamline the electoral process nationwide. The two supporting legislations have also been cleared, with amendments to the laws relating to Union territories with legislative assemblies.
The government has finally decided to constitute a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to scrutinize the proposed amendments. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha on December 17, emphasized that it is crucial to discuss these issues in detail. “When the ‘One Nation, One Poll’ bills were presented, PM Modi recommended they be referred to a JPC for thorough discussions at all levels,” Shah stated.
A JPC is a specialized parliament comprising members from both houses-Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, towards scrutinizing significant bills, policies, or other major issues of national importance to ensure a balanced review.
For the ‘one nation, one poll’ idea, the JPC shall look into legal, logistically feasible, and constitutional implications to make its feasibility possible.
The JPC has vast powers, including summoning and questioning individuals and institutions, demanding proof, and access to significant documents. Its recommendations are central to lawmaking. Thus, in this case, the JPC’s proposals would determine how simultaneous polls could be conducted without running afoul of democratic postulates or federal balance.
Importance of the ‘One Nation, One Poll’ Plan
The “one nation, one poll” framework is a transformative proposal that should reduce election-related disruptions and save public resources. Proponents argue that it will help improve governance by aligning national and state election cycles. However, critics are concerned about its impact on regional representation and federalism, which makes the JPC’s role even more critical in addressing these challenges.
As the debate gains momentum, the ‘one nation, one poll’ initiative remains a defining moment in India’s electoral reforms. The JPC findings will likely steer this historic legislation’s path.
Also, see: List of WPL 2025 auction unsold players