Former Chief Justice of India, B.R. Gavai, expressed his support for the One Nation, One Election (ONOE) proposal during a session with the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) led by BJP MP P.P. Chaudhary. Gavai clarified that the Constitutional Amendment Bill for simultaneous elections aligns with the Basic Structure of the Constitution. He emphasized that the proposed legislation maintains the fundamental principles of federalism and democracy without alteration.
Gavai highlighted that the ONOE initiative primarily changes the election scheduling process while preserving the existing structure of elections and voter rights. He assured the JPC that the amendment is in line with the Constitution as it does not compromise federalism or democratic values. The former CJI also affirmed Parliament’s authority to enact amendments for synchronizing Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections.
In response to concerns about governmental accountability under a unified election system, Gavai reassured that mechanisms like no-confidence motions would remain effective. He argued that the accountability of both Union and state governments would not be compromised by the proposed changes. Gavai further noted that India had previously conducted simultaneous elections until 1967, indicating the historical viability of the concept.
The JPC is currently reviewing the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, under the guidance of former CJI Gavai. These bills aim to synchronize Lok Sabha and Assembly elections by aligning the terms of certain state legislatures. The 23rd Law Commission has endorsed the constitutional validity of the proposed legislation, emphasizing its adherence to the Basic Structure of the Constitution.
