Parliamentary Tensions.
The Rajya Sabha has nominated 12 members to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) tasked with examining the ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) bills. This initiative aims to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies across India. The session was marked by intense debates and confrontations between the ruling party and the opposition, highlighting a deepening political divide.
Key Developments:
- Nomination of Members: The Rajya Sabha nominated 12 members to the JPC, including prominent figures such as Sanjay Singh (AAP), Randeep Surjewala (Congress), and others from various political parties.
- Lok Sabha’s Role: Earlier, the Lok Sabha adopted a resolution to refer the ONOE bills to the JPC, nominating 27 members, including Anurag Thakur (BJP) and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (Congress).
- Opposition’s Stance: The Congress party has vehemently opposed the ONOE proposal, labeling it as anti-democratic, anti-federal, and unconstitutional. They have pledged to oppose the initiative “tooth and nail.”
- Session Conclusion: The winter session of Parliament concluded amidst disruptions, with both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die.
Implications:
The formation of the JPC to scrutinize the ONOE bills signifies a critical step towards deliberating the feasibility and implications of conducting simultaneous elections in India. However, the sharp divisions and heated debates underscore the complexities and challenges associated with this proposal.
For a more in-depth analysis of the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal and its potential impact on India’s democratic framework
by -kartik chandra murmu