One Nation, One Election' May Only Begin in 2034

New Delhi: The ambitious plan for simultaneous elections across India may not materialize until 2034, according to sources familiar with the process. The high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind has proposed significant constitutional amendments, including the insertion of Article 82 A(1), which states that the President will notify the “appointed date” during the first sitting of the Lok Sabha post-general election.

The proposal indicates that the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections could align by 2034, as the next Lok Sabha will run its full term until then. The Electoral Commission would require several years to prepare the logistics for simultaneous elections, including procuring new Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), which will take up to three years to manufacture and deploy, according to official sources.

Additional amendments proposed by the committee include aligning local body elections with state and national polls, although this plan will require a constitutional amendment and ratification by 50% of states.

The earliest possible start for ‘One Nation, One Election’ seems poised for 2034, provided all legislative procedures are completed in time.