Law Commission to propose simultaneous election inn 2029
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The Law Commission is reportedly set to propose the addition of a new chapter to the Constitution focusing on 'one nation, one election.' Under the leadership of Justice (retd) Ritu Raj Awasthi, the Commission is expected to recommend an amendment to facilitate simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies across India by mid-2029.
The envisioned new chapter will address various aspects related to simultaneous elections, including the synchronization of terms for legislative assemblies over a period of five years in three phases. The ultimate goal is to conduct the first synchronized polls in May-June 2029, coinciding with the 19th Lok Sabha elections.
This proposed constitutional amendment aims to streamline the electoral process by ensuring common electoral rolls for all levels of elections, encompassing Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, panchayats, and municipalities. It will also grant the new chapter the authority to override existing provisions in the Constitution pertaining to the tenure of assemblies.
In the event of a government's collapse due to a vote of no confidence or a hung assembly, the Commission may propose the formation of a "unity government" comprising representatives from various political parties. If this approach fails, fresh elections may be recommended for the remaining term of the House.
Additionally, a high-level committee led by former president Ram Nath Kovind is concurrently exploring options to implement simultaneous elections through constitutional amendments and adjustments to the existing legal framework.
Given the upcoming Lok Sabha elections expected in April-May this year, along with several state assembly polls slated for subsequent years, the move towards simultaneous elections aims to streamline the electoral calendar and enhance governance efficiency.