"Many people across country support ONOE," says JPC Chairperson PP Chaudhary after study tour to 5 states, 1 UT
After visiting five states and one Union Territory, Chaudhary said that many political leaders, civil society members, and officials backed the proposal, though some had concerns.
He added that the committee is discussing the issue seriously, and former Chief Justices of India will also give their views to help understand if the idea fits within the Constitution.
Speaking to ANI, PP Chaudhary said, 'We went on a study tour to five states and one Union Territory to gather opinions on the idea of One Nation, One Election. In Maharashtra, we met with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Speaker, leaders of political parties, government officials, and civil society members. Most of them supported the idea, though some political parties had concerns, mainly about national and state issues. Everywhere we went, we saw that committee members from all parties are showing genuine interest in this issue. We are all thinking about what is best for the country, beyond party lines. Former Chief Justices of India, Justice Khehar and Justice DY Chandrachud, will also be speaking to us. Their guidance will help us understand if this idea fits within the Constitution.'
Chaudhary said elections were held together, like in 1967 and 1957. He added that the Election Commission has the power to hold elections together under the law, and the committee will now discuss key issues like federalism and democracy with former Chief Justices in Delhi.
'From what we've seen so far, many people across the country support One Nation, One Election. In the past, general and assembly elections were held together, like four elections were held together in 1967. In 1957, you will see that about seven legislative assemblies were dissolved to conduct seven elections. Now, under the Constitution, the Election Commission has the power to notify elections for Parliament and state assemblies six months in advance, under Sections 14 and 15 of the Representation of the People Act. It also has some flexibility to hold elections together within a few months. So today, as we meet in Delhi, we will be discussing important issues like federalism and democracy with the former Chief Justices, and committee members will raise their questions,' Chaudhary said. (ANI)
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