ONOE could serve as example for other democracies: JPC chairman PP Choudhary
New Delhi, April 1
BJP MP PP Chaudhary on Wednesday emphasised the importance of collecting different views on the Constitution Bill, 2024, particularly from Vice-Chancellors of national universities. He is the chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee formed on 'One Nation, One Election'.
Chaudhary said that the detailed discussions are underway and pointed out that India is a mature "democracy" and if this initiative is implemented effectively, it could inspire other democracies.
He further said that the panel is examining the bill from a legal perspective to ensure that it is is future proof.
"Vice-Chancellors from 8 national universities are here, and we are meeting with them. We will seek their suggestions on the main provisions of this bill--particularly, what their views are on them and what changes they want in them. We are examining this matter from a legal perspective to determine how the draft of the bill should be prepared. Whenever any law is made, its purpose is to remain relevant for many decades. Our country is a mature democracy; therefore, this initiative could serve as an example for other mature democracies. At this time, detailed discussions are underway on this, and the views of all relevant parties are being heard," Chaudhary told ANI after the meeting.
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, is linked to the proposed reform popularly known as "One Nation, One Election," which seeks to synchronise elections for the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is also part of the broader framework aimed at facilitating the implementation of simultaneous elections across the country.
The JPC is currently reviewing the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. These Bills, introduced on December 17, 2024, in the Lok Sabha and sent to the JPC for further scrutiny, collectively aim to introduce simultaneous elections across the country.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While the intent to reduce election fatigue is good, I have concerns. Will this weaken regional parties and issues? India's diversity is its strength. A single national narrative shouldn't overshadow local needs. The JPC must ensure federalism is protected.
Consulting VCs is a smart move. Our universities have brilliant legal and political minds. If the bill is "future proof," it must account for scenarios like a hung House or mid-term collapse. The devil is in the details. Jai Hind!
Interesting to see India take the lead on this. Many democracies struggle with constant campaigning. If it works here, it could indeed be a model. The key will be the transition phase and getting all states on board.
Bas ab implementation dekhna hai. So many good ideas get lost in poor execution. Hope they also think about the massive logistical challenge for the Election Commission. One election means managing the world's largest electoral event at once!
Respectfully, calling India a "mature democracy" while pushing such a fundamental change feels contradictory. Mature democracies evolve slowly with broad consensus. This seems rushed. Let's have a genuine, nationwide debate, not just committee meetings.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.