Debate Over 'One Nation, One Election' Bill Gains Momentum

Former Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, raised concerns about the proposed 'One Nation, One Election' bill, highlighting potential issues with the Election Commission's discretionary powers. Addressing the Joint Committee of Parliament, Khanna emphasized the need for safeguards and questioned the bill's impact on the Constitution's basic structure.

On Tuesday, former Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, expressed reservations about the 'One Nation, One Election' bill, specifically highlighting the unrestricted powers given to the Election Commission by the proposal. The bill aims to minimize election frequency, but Khanna doubts its practical implementation, emphasizing the need for additional safeguards.

During his appearance before the Joint Committee of Parliament, led by BJP MP P P Chaudhary, Khanna suggested the inclusion of protections to prevent misuse of provisions allowing the Election Commission to delay state assembly elections under certain conditions. The joint committee discussed whether the bill contradicts the Constitution's fundamental framework. Chaudhary reported a broad consensus that it does not.

Khanna, described as balanced in his evaluation, provided a comprehensive legal perspective and warned that although the bill's intention is valid, it may not address mid-term legislative dissolutions effectively. He highlighted the importance of a fixed implementation date for the law, rather than contingent timelines. Key figures from various political parties, including BJP and Congress, attended the meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)