Inaugural Meeting of ‘One Nation, One Election’ Committee Set for September 23:
The committee responsible for the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative is gearing up for its inaugural meeting, scheduled for September 23, 2023. Former President and committee chairman, Ram Nath Kovind, announced this date while addressing the media. The concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ was first introduced on August 31, sparking widespread curiosity and speculation within the political arena. Various political parties, politicians, and election experts have been closely monitoring the developments, eagerly anticipating the committee’s agenda for the special session of Parliament. On September 1, the government officially established a committee dedicated to the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative, appointing former President Ram Nath Kovind as its leader. In support of this significant move, BJP chief JP Nadda held discussions with the former president at his residence earlier. The formation of the committee has intensified speculations, strongly suggesting that a special parliamentary session will be convened to introduce this crucial legislation. Since assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently advocated for the idea of synchronized elections, encompassing not only national but also local elections. He has emphasized the financial strain caused by the near-continuous cycle of elections and the resultant disruption to developmental projects during election periods. Ram NathKovind, echoing Prime Minister Modi’s perspective, expressed his endorsement of the concept after assuming the presidency in 2017. During an address to Parliament in 2018, he emphasized, “Frequent elections not only impose a huge burden on human resources but also impede the development process due to the promulgation of the model code of conduct.” Like Prime Minister Modi, Kovind urged for a sustained and inclusive debate on this issue, expressing hope that all political parties would eventually reach a consensus regarding the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative.
