'One Nation, One Election': Former President Ram Nath Kovind Led Panel Seeks Public Input On Simultaneous Polls

The high-level committee, led by former president Ram Nath Kovind, spearheading the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative, has extended an invitation to the public for suggestions on refining the existing legal and administrative framework to facilitate simultaneous elections across India.

In a public notice, the committee emphasized that suggestions received by 15 January would be given due consideration.

As reported by Economic Times, Citizens can submit their recommendations through the committee's official website or via email at sc-hlc@gov.in.

This move follows the committee's efforts to engage with political parties, seeking their perspectives on the idea of conducting simultaneous polls.

The committee previously communicated with six national parties, 33 state parties, and seven registered unrecognised parties.

Having held two meetings since its establishment in September, the committee has also consulted the Law Commission on the matter and may further engage with the commission in the future.

The primary objective of the committee, as outlined in its terms of reference, is to examine and propose recommendations for simultaneous elections at various levels, encompassing the House of the People (Lok Sabha), State Legislative Assemblies, Municipalities, and Panchayats.

The committee is mandated to consider amendments to the Constitution of India, the Representation of the People Act, 1950, the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and other relevant laws to facilitate the realization of simultaneous elections.