One nation, one election: Committee seeks detailed opinions

NEW DELHI: A high-powered committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind has directed political parties to give detailed opinions on the matter of 'One nation, one election.' The second meeting of the committee held yesterday accepted the resignation of Congress member Adhir Ranjan Chaudhary. A website www.onoe.gov.in has been developed for 'One nation, one election.'

The committee had sent letters to six national parties, 33 state parties and seven registered unrecognized parties inviting suggestions. The committee will hold discussions with political parties in this regard. The measures including the constitutional amendment to hold simultaneous elections and the role of the Election Commission were discussed.

Indian Law Commission Chairperson Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, who attended the meeting, explained the guidelines for holding simultaneous elections in the country. The Commission has issued several recommendations to the Law Ministry and the central government on the matter.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Former Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, Former Chairman 15th Finance Commission NK Singh, Former Lok Sabha Secretary General Dr Subhash C Kashyap, Senior Advocate Harish Salve, Former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari and other members also attended the meeting.