One Nation One Election Panel Formed: Anurag Thakur, Priyanka Gandhi Among Key Members

A 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has been constituted to examine the proposed 'One Nation, One Election' (ONOE) framework. The panel includes prominent leaders such as Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Union Minister Anurag Thakur, and BJP leader Anil Baluni.

The committee has been tasked to submit its findings to the Lok Sabha during the first day of the last week of the next parliamentary session.

Photo Credit: PTI

Key Details of the Panel

The committee comprises 21 MPs from the Lok Sabha and 10 MPs from the Rajya Sabha, representing various political parties across the spectrum. Some notable members of the panel include:

• Dharmendra Yadav (Samajwadi Party)
• Supriya Sule (NCP-SP)
• Shrikant Shinde (Shiv Sena)
• Kalyan Banerjee (Trinamool Congress)
• Sanjay Jha (JD(U))
• P Wilson and Selva Gagapathy (DMK)

The panel has been given a 90-day timeline to analyze proposed amendments and consult key stakeholders regarding the implementation of simultaneous elections across India.

Background of the ONOE Initiative

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced the ONOE bill in the Lok Sabha during the current winter session, following its approval by the Union Cabinet on December 12, 2024. The ONOE initiative proposes to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies to streamline governance and reduce electoral costs.

Political Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed ONOE as a transformative step for Indian democracy. However, the bill has faced criticism from opposition parties, with concerns about its potential impact on India's federal structure. Many opposition leaders have described it as a challenge to regional autonomy and diversity in governance.

Next Steps for the Panel

The newly formed JPC will:

• Examine the Proposed Amendments: The panel will evaluate constitutional and statutory amendments required to implement ONOE.
• Consult Stakeholders: Discussions will be held with political parties, constitutional experts, and state representatives to gather inputs.
• Prepare a Report: The final report is expected to outline the feasibility and roadmap for the ONOE implementation.

Significance of the ONOE Bill

If implemented, ONOE would align election schedules across the country, reducing the frequency of elections and curbing associated administrative costs. Proponents argue that it would ensure policy stability and reduce disruptions caused by recurring election cycles. Critics, however, worry that it may centralize power and diminish the voice of regional parties.

The panel's report, expected within three months, will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of this landmark proposal.