‘One Nation, One Election’: Click to know top 10 recommendations by Ram Nath Kovind’s panel

The high-level panel led by Former President Ram Nath Kovind on ‘One Nation, One Election’ has put forth a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at streamlining the electoral process in India. 

Here are the top 10 recommendations made by the panel:

1. Two-Step Approach: The panel suggests a phased approach for conducting simultaneous elections, starting with Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, followed by Municipalities and Panchayats within 100 days.

2. Addressing Hung House Situations: In the event of a hung House, where a no-confidence motion leads to the formation of a new House, fresh elections may be conducted for the remaining term of five years.

3. Tenure of State Assemblies: If fresh elections are held for State Legislative Assemblies, the new Assembly shall continue up to the term of the Lok Sabha, unless dissolved sooner.

4. Constitutional Amendment: The panel recommends introducing a Constitution Amendment Bill to amend Article 83 and Article 172, pertaining to the duration of Parliament and State Legislatures, respectively.

5. Notification by the President: To synchronize Lok Sabha and assembly elections, the President shall notify the date of the first sitting of the Lok Sabha after a general election as the ‘appointed date.

6. Tenure of State Assemblies: The tenure of state assemblies formed after the “appointed date” shall end before the subsequent parliamentary polls.

7. Single Electoral Roll and EPIC: A single electoral roll and Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC) shall be prepared by the Election Commission of India in consultation with the State Election Commission.

8. Logistics Planning: The Election Commission of India (ECI) may develop a plan for logistical arrangements, including procurement of equipment and deployment of personnel, for simultaneous elections.

9. Minimal Constitutional Amendments: The recommendations aim to require minimal amendments to the Constitution, ensuring alignment with the spirit of India’s constitutional framework.

10. Enhanced Transparency and Inclusivity: The panel asserts that its recommendations will enhance transparency, inclusivity, and confidence among voters, thereby strengthening India’s democratic fabric.

Widespread Consultations: The panel conducted extensive consultations with political parties, experts, and citizens, receiving overwhelming support for simultaneous elections.

The comprehensive report, spanning over 18,626 pages, reflects meticulous research and deliberations over 191 days. Notable members of the panel include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, former Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, and other eminent personalities from various fields. The recommendations aim to pave the way for a synchronized electoral process, fostering economic growth and social cohesion in the country.