Kovind Committee Proposes 18 Amendments for Simultaneous Elections

The Kovind committee's report, now accepted by the Union Cabinet, recommends 18 amendments to the Constitution and other statutes to facilitate simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies. The proposed changes include amending Articles 325 and 324A of the Constitution and require majority state ratification under Article 368(2).

In a significant move, the Union Cabinet has accepted the Kovind committee's recommendations, which entail 18 key amendments to the Constitution and pertinent statutes. These reforms are aimed at implementing simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies, proposed in a phased manner following nationwide consensus-building.

The recommended amendments include changes to constitutional provisions such as Article 325, which deals with the electoral roll for local bodies, and Article 324A, which pertains to simultaneous elections for municipalities and panchayats alongside general elections. The proposals also demand ratification from at least half of the States, in accordance with Article 368(2).

Addressing the potential issue of a hung Parliament or assembly, the panel suggests mechanisms to resolve situations where no single political party or alliance secures a majority. Historical convention mandates that the President or the Governor explore government formation by inviting various parties, emphasizing constitutional values and collaboration.

(With inputs from agencies.)