The national Law Commission in its draft report to the central government has proposed the idea of holding simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which can prevent the country from being in a constant election mode.
But it is only possible after making amendments to the constitution and the electoral law, added the commission recommending the changes in the report. “Holding simultaneous elections is not possible within the existing framework of the Constitution.”
The draft report further says that Simultaneous polls will save public money, help reduce the burden on administrative setup and security forces and ensure better implementation of government policies.
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It will also help the administrative machinery of the country to be continuously engaged in developmental activities, “rather than in electioneering.”
However, the report suggests that changes are required not just in the constitution but discussions must also be held with all the stakeholders involved, given the complexity of an election.
“In view of the complexity of the issues involved, it is desirable to have further discussions and examination on the matter, involving all the stakeholders, once again, before making final recommendations to the Government,” says the report shared with the media on Thursday.
Although most political parties had earlier rejected the idea of simultaneous elections, the BJP led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had vouched in favour of the move, with the saffron party leader even delivering a speech about “one nation, one election.”
The ruling party had also argued that such a thing will not just reduce the expenditure incurred in conducting an election but also ensure that the country is not in election mode throughout the year.
Other political parties like the National Congress, Trinamool Congress, AAP, DMK, etc, have constantly opposed the idea.