Puri (Odisha) – BJP leader and former MP Sujeet Kumar expressed strong support for the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative, describing it as a beneficial concept that could enhance governance and reduce political disruptions in India.

Kumar remarked, "This is a wonderful concept in a country like India where regular elections cause regular disruptions. It will help bring in good governance. I don't agree with the allegations by the opposition."

Despite the opposition's claims that the initiative is anti-democratic and impractical, Kumar argued that the Union Cabinet's approval signifies its importance. He emphasized that India used to implement this system until 1967, stating, "From 1952 elections onward, we had 'one nation, one election'. But due to several reasons, it was discontinued. It is a very good thing for the country. It is actually going to help bring in good governance, and I don't think it is anti-federal at all."

Kumar further highlighted that the Indian Constitution does not oppose this idea, insisting, "If it had been anti-federal, the Constitution would have clearly mentioned that there should not be any 'one nation, one election' in the country. There is no such mention in the Constitution. So, I think it is good for the country and I urge all political parties to go beyond party lines and support this."

When addressing the BJP government in Odisha completing 100 days, Kumar dismissed criticism from the opposition, particularly the BJD. "Most of the promises made in the BJP's election manifesto have been fulfilled. The government is working day and night, and I am sure this will be one of the best governments in the coming five years," he asserted.

In response to the proposal, Congress MP Manish Tewari criticized it as more "political" than "constitutional," arguing that it is filled with contradictions and would likely face legal challenges. He noted, "The entire one nation, one election proposal is riddled with contradictions; it has not been thought through and goes against the basic structure of the Constitution."

Tewari also voiced concerns about the impact on India’s federal structure, stating that the proposal promotes centralism at the expense of decentralization. He questioned whether state governments had been consulted regarding the simultaneous elections for local bodies, national, and assembly elections.

AAP leader Sanjay Singh criticized the BJP, labeling it a party of "one nation, one corruption," and accused them of misleading the public about election costs. Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar also opposed the move, suggesting it aims to weaken regional parties.

The 'One Nation, One Election' proposal aims to conduct simultaneous Lok Sabha, assembly, and local body elections within 100 days. A High-level Committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind submitted its report to President Droupadi Murmu earlier this year following extensive consultations.

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