Debate Intensifies Over One Nation, One Election Bill Amidst Parliamentary Deliberations

Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and others join a Joint Parliamentary Committee to discuss the contentious 'One Nation, One Election' Bill. The bill aims for simultaneous elections across India but has met with strong opposition, citing threats to democratic balance and regional autonomy.

A Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) has been established to deliberate on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, with Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala participating in the discussions, as reported by party sources on Wednesday.

Introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, the bill proposes holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, facing staunch opposition from various political parties. Critics argue that this could skew electoral advantages towards the ruling party, potentially undermining the regional parties' autonomy.

Despite opposition efforts to thwart its introduction, the bill saw a division vote of 269 in favor and 196 against, prompting its referral to the JPC for further scrutiny. Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal introduced pivotal legislation, including the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill 2024, signaling significant political shifts. Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the necessity for detailed review by the JPC as emphasized by PM Modi.

(With inputs from agencies.)