The controversial bill divides ruling and opposition parties, raising concerns about democracy and development.
Mumbai, December 13: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Friday strongly opposed the ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill, calling it the “biggest threat to democracy.” Addressing a press conference, Raut accused the BJP of forming governments through alleged manipulation of electronic voting machines (EVMs).
“No proper amendment or research has been conducted regarding this bill. Modi ji always speaks his Mann ki Baat without considering the public’s opinion or the opposition’s perspective. I doubt if Modi ji will remain the Prime Minister until 2029. This is the biggest threat to democracy. The governments in Maharashtra and Delhi are not democratically formed; they are the result of EVM manipulation,” Raut alleged.
Contrastingly, JDU MP Sanjay Jha expressed support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance governance. “Simultaneous elections were common after independence, but the Congress disrupted this system by frequently imposing President’s Rule. The development work that often gets stalled due to frequent elections will proceed unhindered under ‘One Nation, One Election.’ Our party fully supports this initiative,” Jha said.
The Union Cabinet approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill on Thursday, paving the way for its introduction in Parliament. The proposal aims to synchronize Lok Sabha, Assembly, urban body, and panchayat elections within 100 days, as outlined by a high-level panel chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
This decision has sparked a sharp divide between ruling and opposition parties. While BJP-led NDA alliance parties have welcomed the move, citing its efficiency and time-saving potential, several parties from the INDIA bloc have voiced concerns over its implications for democracy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the bill as a significant step towards strengthening India’s democracy. “The Cabinet has accepted the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Simultaneous Elections. I compliment Shri Ram Nath Kovind Ji for spearheading this effort and consulting a wide range of stakeholders. This is an important step towards making our democracy even more vibrant and participative,” PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The bill has ignited heated discussions nationwide, with proponents emphasizing governance benefits and critics warning against potential threats to democratic practices. As the Parliament gears up to deliberate on the bill, it remains a focal point of contention between India’s ruling and opposition forces.