New Delhi, July 11: Former Chief Justices of India, Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice JS Khehar, participated in a key Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting on Friday at Parliament House Annexe, offering legal insights into the One Nation One Election proposal.
🔹 Why This Matters
The JPC is reviewing the One Nation One Election concept through the lens of:
- The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024
- Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024
The presence of two former CJIs adds significant constitutional weight to the ongoing deliberations on whether holding simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies is legally and practically viable.
🔹 What the CJIs Will Present
The former CJIs are expected to:
- Evaluate constitutional implications
- Offer legal interpretations
- Assist lawmakers in determining whether the proposed reforms can pass constitutional scrutiny
🔹 JPC Chairperson Speaks
PP Chaudhary, BJP MP and Chairperson of the committee, said:
“We visited five states and one Union Territory. Most political leaders, officials, and civil society members were supportive, although a few parties expressed concerns about distinguishing between state and national issues.”
He emphasized:
- The non-partisan nature of the committee’s work
- The importance of judicial guidance in understanding the constitutional feasibility of simultaneous elections
🔹 The Road So Far
- The JPC has conducted consultations with various stakeholders across India.
- The One Nation One Election idea is being positioned as a cost-effective, governance-enhancing reform.
- However, concerns persist over federalism, regional identity, and logistical challenges.
🧾 About the Bill
The 129th Constitutional Amendment Bill, 2024, aims to amend provisions to allow:
- Simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies
- Streamlined electoral logistics and voter turnout strategies