The debate on One Nation, One Election gathered momentum on Wednesday as Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta interacted with members of the Parliamentary Joint Committee (JPC) examining the proposed constitutional framework for simultaneous elections.The committee, headed by P. P. Chaudhary, visited the Delhi Assembly as part of its nationwide consultation process on the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024.During the interaction, Vijender Gupta stressed that any move towards synchronising Lok Sabha and Assembly elections must be backed by broad political consensus and strong constitutional safeguards.
He noted that India followed simultaneous elections in the early decades after Independence, but political developments and premature dissolution of legislatures led to different electoral cycles.Highlighting the impact of frequent elections, the Speaker said repeated polls increase administrative and financial burdens, repeatedly enforce the Model Code of Conduct, and disrupt governance and development initiatives.
He suggested that the committee examine key issues such as constructive votes of no-confidence, premature dissolution of legislatures, harmonisation of electoral rolls, strengthening the preparedness of the Election Commission, and institutional mechanisms to ensure political stability while preserving India’s democratic and federal structure.JPC Chairperson P. P. Chaudhary said the committee had been entrusted by Parliament with examining the constitutional and legislative framework for simultaneous elections.
He described the exercise as having far-reaching implications for India’s democratic and electoral architecture and said consultations with state governments, constitutional authorities, legislators and other stakeholders across the country would help shape a comprehensive report for Parliament.Delhi Assembly Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht also addressed the gathering, stating that simultaneous elections merit careful consideration due to their potential to improve administrative efficiency and reduce the recurring expenditure associated with frequent polls. He expressed confidence that the committee’s deliberations would help develop a pragmatic electoral framework in the national interest.Senior officials from the Ministry of Law and Justice, the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the Government of NCT of Delhi and the Delhi Legislative Assembly Secretariat were also present during the programme.
