23-09-2023 : The high-level committee tasked with exploring the feasibility of simultaneous elections in India, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, convened its inaugural meeting on a recent Saturday. During this session, a significant decision was reached – to solicit the input of political parties and the Law Commission regarding the prospect of synchronized polls across the country.
The committee boasted a distinguished assembly of prominent figures, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, former Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Finance Commission chairman N.K. Singh, former Lok Sabha secretary general Subhash C. Kashyap, and former chief vigilance commissioner Sanjay Kothari, among others. Their collective presence underscored the gravity of the matter at hand.
The committee’s decision, as outlined in an official statement, encompassed the invitation of recognized national parties, parties currently governing various states, those with representation in Parliament, as well as other acknowledged state-level parties. The objective was to elicit their valuable suggestions and viewpoints on the intricate issue of conducting synchronized elections throughout the nation.
Furthermore, the committee extended an invitation to the Law Commission, seeking their expert input and insights regarding the feasibility and implications of synchronized elections. This step underscores the intention to garner a comprehensive understanding of the legal and constitutional aspects surrounding simultaneous polls.
Notably, legal luminary Harish Salve participated in the meeting virtually, adding his expertise to the deliberations. However, it was observed that Congress leader in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was conspicuously absent from the proceedings, as highlighted in the official statement.
Chowdhury’s absence was duly noted, especially given his inclusion in the committee. It was clarified in the statement that he had communicated his decision to Home Minister Amit Shah in writing, in which he expressed his reluctance to serve on the committee. This development hints at the potential differences of opinion and divergent perspectives within the political spectrum regarding the concept of simultaneous elections in India.