Opposition questions special session, bid for synched polls
Opposition parties have questioned the government's motive of convening a special session of Parliament and the intention and feasibility of holding all polls together once in five years.
Sensing the government move to dictate the electoral agenda and strategy, the Opposition claimed the government was concerned and jittery about Opposition unity and the moves of the INDIA bloc. They also questioned the propriety of asking a former president to head the panel to look into the feasibility of 'one nation, one election.' Opposition camps are also trying to prepare for more surprises during the special session of Parliament.
Madhya Pradesh PCC chief Kamal Nath questioned how Opposition-ruled states could be forced to change poll schedules of their respective assemblies without the consent of state governments. «For this (one-nation-one-poll), not just an amendment of the Constitution but also approval of states is needed.
They can decide and pass a Cabinet resolution to dissolve respective assemblies in BJP-ruled states like Haryana and Maharashtra. But you can't just cut short the duration of a state assembly. It doesn't work like that.»
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut raised the suspicion that the move was to influence elections: «One nation, one election is fine, but there should be a fair election.
They (Centre) have brought this to postpone our demand for fair elections. I think it is a plot to advance the elections,» he said.
Ram Gopal Yadav of SP questioned appointment of Ram Nath Kovind to examine the proposal. «Traditionally, former presidents are not appointed to any posts; what they have done is wrong.
