Will Discuss Issue After Kovind-Led Panel Submits Report: Centre On One Nation, One Election Idea

The idea of 'one nation, one election' mooted by the BJP-led Centre is facing a lot of flak from the Opposition after it formed a panel to explore the possibility. The Opposition has alleged that the BJP, in order to conduct early Lok Sabha elections, is trying to bring in the practice of 'one nation, one election' at the five-day special Parliament session, starting on September 18. Reacting to the Opposition's accusation Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said: "Right now, just a committee has been formed. The matter will be discussed after the committee submits its report. The agenda of the Parliament's special session will be finalized in two to four days and then we will let everyone know... Till 1967, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha elections were held simultaneously."

"India is called the mother of democracy and this is evolution," he said.

The Centre on Friday morning said that it had constituted a committee to study the idea of 'one nation, one election'. This panel would be led by former President  Ram Nath Kovind. Soon after the committee was announced, the Opposition hit out at the BJP, alleging that it was a ploy to hold early Lok Sabha polls and divert the public's attention from core issues. Opposition leaders also said that the BJP was scared of its unity and, hence, had decided to bring in such measures.

Maharashtra Deputy CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis said, "It is the right proposal. When elections keep happening in the country, due to the model code of conduct imposed in different parts many projects get derailed, despite the resources having been used for it. With 'one nation, one election' policy, there will be no waste of money and the process of reforms will continue well."

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath hailed the Centre's move and said that 'one nation, one election' is the need of the day. "During the process of elections, development works or new policies get hindered. It is imperative that we conduct Lok Sabha, assembly, and all other elections together. I welcome this step," he said.