Momentum is building for simultaneous elections, but with constitutional and political challenges ahead, its successful implementation remains uncertain
The ‘ one- nation -one poll’ idea is moving towards Parliament and public debate, with the Modi government deciding to force the issue last week. The cabinet decided to bring a bill to Parliament in the coming session. The concept has been debated many times in the past, but no political consensus has evolved.The ruling BJP has been pushing to change the electoral system for a long time.
Congress rejected the idea when approached by former Prime Minister A B Vajpayee and later BJP leader L K Advani in the past.The timing of the move was excellent, as it was on the day Modi completed 100 days in office in his third term last week. This is one of the critical electoral reforms the BJP has suggested in its manifestoes for about two decades. While the idea seems reasonable and doable, several questions have arisen. Is India ready for such a reform?