Darjeeling, 18th September: In a historic move, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ report prepared by a high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, as announced by Darjeeling MP Raju Bista through a press release.
The committee proposed comprehensive reforms in the electoral system and recommended the implementation of simultaneous elections across the nation. The report, spanning 18,626 pages, was based on extensive consultations with political parties, politicians, academics, activists, NGOs, development bodies, and citizens.
The key proposal is to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies to streamline the electoral process. The committee emphasized that simultaneous elections will strengthen democratic principles, ensure continuous governance, reduce logistical burdens, and foster national development.
Historically, India held simultaneous elections in 1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967, but the practice gradually faded.
MP Raju Bista, on behalf of the people of Darjeeling, Terai, and Dooars, welcomed the decision, highlighting that it would ensure uniform participation in the democratic process and enhance focus on nation-building.
He also expressed hope that this reform would prevent delays in elections to rural and urban bodies, such as Panchayats and Municipalities.
