"All elections should be held simultaneously, this will not hinder country progress": Shivraj Chouhan on One Nation One Election

New Delhi [India], January 25 (ANI): Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday praised the concept of One Nation, One Election, advocating for simultaneous Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections across the country. He argued that continuous elections hinder national progress and public welfare.
Speaking to ANI, Chouhan highlighted that consolidating elections would enable political parties to focus more on serving the people and encouraging uninterrupted development.
"All elections in the country should be held simultaneously. Continuous elections are a hindrance to the country's progress and development and become an obstacle to public welfare. Therefore, didis (women) are in favour of the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections being held simultaneously. This will not hinder the country's progress and development," he said.
Earlier today, President Droupadi Murmu expressed her support for the move on 'One Nation, One Election' saying it can prevent policy paralysis, promote consistency in governance, prevent policy paralysis and mitigate resource diversion.
The President referred to the bill on simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies, which was introduced in the lower House of Parliament in the winter session and said it promises to redefine the terms of good governance.
"Another measure that promises to redefine the terms of good governance is the Bill introduced in Parliament to synchronise election schedules in the country. The 'One Nation One Election' plan can promote consistency in governance, prevent policy paralysis, mitigate resource diversion, and reduce the financial burden, apart from offering many other benefits," she said.
The constitution amendment bill on 'One Nation, One Election', which is being examined by a Joint Parliamentary Committee, proposes aligning the election cycles of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
The bill has been opposed by several opposition parties including Congress, Trinamool Congress and DMK.
The government says that synchronising electoral timelines will help meet logistical challenges, reduce costs, and minimise disruptions caused by frequent elections. (ANI)