Government's One Nation One Poll Push: Reform Or Rush?
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the 'One Nation, One Election' Bill, which is likely to be tabled during this Winter session of Parliament. The bill will be referred to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). This is being seen as a reform aimed at overhauling India's electoral democracy, bringing positive changes in terms of cost, convenience, and uninterrupted governance. Government sources have made it clear that they want deliberations on this from all quarters. In fact, speakers from legislative assemblies and domain experts could also be consulted once the bill is with the expert committee. However, when it comes to the idea itself, how tricky will its implementation be? Remember, this is not a new concept-India had concurrent polls until 1967. Is it logistically possible? What are the challenges? And how will it fundamentally change the way Indians view elections?
