Union Cabinet Approves Simultaneous Elections for Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and Local Bodies
Last Updated on September 18, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh
The Union Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, approved holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and local bodies. This follows the recommendations of a High-Level Committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which submitted its report in March. The committee was formed in September last year.
Key members included Home Minister Amit Shah, former Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, senior advocate Harish Salve, and other prominent figures. The committee recommended simultaneous elections to reduce the burden on stakeholders, including the government, businesses, courts, political parties, and candidates.
The report suggested two main steps. First, it proposed aligning Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly elections. Second, it recommended that local body elections (Panchayats and Municipalities) be held within 100 days of the general elections.
The committee also suggested adding Article 82A to the Constitution. This article would align the terms of the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. For example, if implemented in 2024, any State Assembly elected afterward would end its term with the Lok Sabha in 2029, even if the assembly’s election occurs in 2027.
An Implementation Group has been recommended to oversee the execution of these changes. Additionally, Article 82A(4) allows the Election Commission to recommend rescheduling elections if necessary.
In the case of a hung assembly or a no-confidence motion, fresh elections may be held. However, the newly elected government will only serve the remaining term. Amendments to Articles 83 and 172 are proposed to address this.
The committee also recommended introducing Article 324A to coordinate simultaneous elections for local bodies.
