India's govt contemplates 'One Nation, One Election': Can Modi's ambitious reform be a reality?
Streamlining this multifaceted electoral system presents a formidable challenge. The Indian government, said to be driven by a desire for development and efficiency, has recently expressed its interest in retreating to a voting system reminiscent of the 1960s. Any change — whether beneficial or detrimental — also may mean the government is walking on a thin rope as they will have to counter severe scrutiny, especially now that several opposition parties have united under the banner of «INDIA.»
Nonetheless, the government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appears committed to the cause. The government has reportedly formed a committee under the chairmanship of former President Ram Nath Kovind, who too had voiced support for this idea years back, to explore possibility of 'One Nation, One Election'.
Also Read: Indian govt forms committee to explore possibility of 'one nation, one election': Report
The government in a surprise announcement on August 31 called for a special session of Parliament for five days starting September 18. However, no official announcement was made regarding the agenda of the session. But speculation is rife that the session may include discussions on the upcoming elections, with some expecting a 'One nation, one election' move from the Centre, while others predict a poll preponement.
One Nation, One Election: What it means for national politics and voters, what are advantages & challanges?
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had earlier this week said that the Narendra Modi-led BJP government might conduct the Lok Sabha polls in December itself, claiming that all choppers have been booked by the saffron party for campaigning.
However, more than the timing, the focus
