New Delhi: On Thursday, December 12, 2024, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut expressed strong support for the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative, calling it a crucial and timely step for the country. She emphasized that the current system of conducting separate elections for different states and the Lok Sabha every few months creates an immense financial burden on the government. The continuous need to allocate resources, manpower, and security for frequent elections leads to considerable expenditure that could otherwise be used for developmental activities.
Ranaut also highlighted the issue of voter fatigue, noting that repeated elections often discourage people from turning out to vote. This decline in voter participation undermines the democratic process, as fewer citizens engage in choosing their representatives. She believes that synchronizing all elections would not only reduce costs but also increase efficiency and encourage higher voter turnout by simplifying the election process. In her view, ‘One Nation, One Election’ is an initiative that has widespread public and political support and is necessary for the country’s progress.
“‘One Nation, One Election’ is crucial because frequent elections significantly deplete government resources. The challenge lies in motivating people to vote repeatedly, which has led to a consistent decline in voter turnout. This initiative is essential, and it has widespread support,” Ranaut told the media.
On the same day, the Union Cabinet approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ bill, clearing the path for its introduction in Parliament. A comprehensive bill is now expected to be tabled, laying the foundation for simultaneous elections across the country.
Earlier, on Wednesday, former President Ram Nath Kovind, who leads the committee on this initiative, stressed the importance of national consensus. He noted that the initiative transcends party politics and serves the national interest. “The Central government must build consensus. This is a matter of national significance. Economists believe that ‘One Nation, One Election’ could increase the GDP by 1-1.5 per cent,” he said.
In September, the Union Cabinet initially approved the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal, aimed at synchronizing Lok Sabha, Assembly, urban body, and panchayat elections within a 100-day window. The initiative’s recommendations were detailed in a report by a high-level panel chaired by Kovind.