New Delhi, August 24: BJP MP and Chairman of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on ‘One Nation, One Election’, PP Chaudhary, asserted that simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections would significantly benefit students across the country.
In a discussion in New Delhi, Chaudhary emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has committed to building a developed India, with youth and students playing a crucial role in this vision. The four main pillars of a developed India are youth, women, Scheduled Castes, and farmers, all of whom will contribute significantly to this endeavor.
Chaudhary noted that meetings regarding ‘One Nation, One Election’ are ongoing. The committee has invited various stakeholders to Delhi for discussions. They have consulted six former Chief Justices of India, receiving several important suggestions. Additionally, conversations have taken place with former judges of the Supreme Court and the Delhi High Court, totaling discussions with around 12 judges.
He also mentioned that legal experts such as Harish Salve, Kapil Sibal, and Abhishek Manu Singhvi have been consulted. The committee has engaged with economists and gathered opinions from Chief Ministers, Assembly Speakers, and other representatives. The consensus is that Lok Sabha and Assembly elections should be held simultaneously.
The committee aims to consider recommendations for the proposed bill, including necessary changes and significant suggestions to create a long-term law that allows for concurrent elections. This would enhance government stability, improve governance, and contribute to economic growth.
Chaudhary stressed the need for a uniform voter list alongside ‘One Nation, One Election’. He stated that holding simultaneous elections would provide substantial relief to students, as teachers in government schools are often assigned election duties, disrupting students’ education. Conducting elections together could reduce the frequency of these assignments, directly benefiting students’ learning.
Regarding the possibility of holding Assembly elections in several states alongside the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, Chaudhary clarified that this is a political decision outside the committee’s jurisdiction. Under Article 174(2), if the council of ministers wishes, they can dissolve the Assembly and conduct elections simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections. Thus, any party, whether NDA, Congress, or others, can proceed with this if they choose.
Chaudhary criticized Congress regarding the national song, Vande Mataram, claiming they behave as if they are above the law. He stated that laws passed by Parliament apply to everyone, including Congress. Vande Mataram is a national song that inspired unity during the freedom struggle, and many sacrificed their lives for it.
He accused Congress of continuing to engage in appeasement politics even 80 years after independence, insisting on singing only two verses of the song. This reflects a lack of patriotism within the party. In contrast, he asserted that for Prime Minister Modi and the BJP, the nation comes first, while Congress prioritizes family over country.
Targeting opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, Chaudhary remarked that the leader of the opposition carries significant responsibility. The public expects them to voice their concerns and hold the government accountable. However, instead of addressing issues in Parliament, Gandhi is boycotting sessions and raising matters on the streets.
Chaudhary concluded that it would have been better if Rahul Gandhi had discussed issues in Parliament and held the government accountable. The upcoming elections may have consequences for both Congress and Gandhi.
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