The Central Cabinet has approved the One Nation, One Election proposal, marking a significant step forward. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources indicate that the draft bills for One Nation, One Election could be introduced in the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament.
With critical bills likely to be presented before Parliament, both the BJP and Congress have issued whips to their MPs, mandating their attendance on December 13 and 14.
As differing opinions persist regarding the One Nation, One Election initiative, the government is making efforts to build consensus on the matter. It is considering referring the bills to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for broader consultations. The government is also keen on engaging with the Speakers of legislative assemblies across various states.
Additionally, sources suggest that representatives from multiple political parties and coalition groups will be included in discussions to ensure comprehensive deliberation.
The One Nation, One Election concept was first highlighted in a report led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which proposed conducting nationwide elections from Panchayati levels to Parliament simultaneously. This report was submitted to President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024. In response, the Central Cabinet approved Kovind’s recommendations in September 2024.
While over 30 political parties across the country support the proposal, around 15 parties, including Congress, remain opposed. Congress has argued that consolidating all elections is impractical and that democracy should continue with elections being held whenever required, rather than aligning them under a single consolidated framework.