Priyanka Gandhi Likely to Join One Nation One Poll Panel

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Priyanka Gandhi is likely to join the Joint Parliamentary Committee for the One Nation One Election bills.
2. She will be one of the Congress representatives, along with Manish Tewari.
3. The 31-member panel will have 90 days to review the proposed amendments.
4. The bill passed in the Lok Sabha with 269 votes in favor and 198 votes against.
5. The opposition criticized the bill, claiming it threatens states’ autonomy and promotes centralization of power.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Priyanka Gandhi’s Potential Inclusion in the Parliamentary Panel
The Indian government has introduced the “One Nation One Election” (ONOE) bills aiming to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Among the members likely to join the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to scrutinize the bills is Priyanka Gandhi, a first-term Member of Parliament representing Wayanad. Known for her unique protest methods, Gandhi’s inclusion in the committee could give significant weight to Congress’ viewpoint in the discussions.

Details of the Bills and Their Impact
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Law (Amendment) Bill, 2024 were presented in the Lok Sabha, proposing simultaneous elections for both national and state legislatures. The ruling BJP has pushed for this initiative, arguing it will streamline the electoral process and reduce election-related costs. However, opposition parties, including Congress, have criticized the move. They view it as an effort by the BJP to centralize power, undermining the autonomy of state governments and threatening India’s federal structure.

Role of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)
The Joint Parliamentary Committee, which will consist of members from different political parties, will assess the potential effects of the ONOE bills. With 31 members, including representatives from JD(U), Samajwadi Party, TDP, DMK, and other parties, the committee’s role is crucial in evaluating the impact these changes could have on Indian democracy. The committee will have 90 days to conduct its review, although an extension may be requested if needed.

Opposition Criticism and Support from Other Parties
Opposition parties, particularly Congress, have fiercely opposed the One Nation One Election bills. They argue that simultaneous elections would diminish the importance of state governments and concentrate power within the central administration. In contrast, several regional parties like YSR Congress, BJD, and AIADMK have voiced support for the idea, boosting the BJP’s position in the Parliament. This division underscores the political rift over the proposal, with multiple perspectives on its potential impact on India’s federal system.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

The possibility of Priyanka Gandhi joining the One Nation One Election parliamentary panel highlights the importance of this debate for Indian democracy. The bills aim to synchronize national and state elections, but opposition concerns about centralization and state autonomy persist. The Joint Parliamentary Committee will play a vital role in shaping the future of this significant reform. As debates continue, India’s political landscape may shift toward greater centralization or find a balance that respects both federal and central concerns.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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