One Nation One Election Bill Fail to Secure 2/3rd Majority ?
One Nation, One Election Bills Introduced Amid Heated Debate
On Tuesday, Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal introduced two key bills under the ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) initiative, aiming to synchronize Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections. However, the bills failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority in the lower house, garnering 269 votes in favor and 198 against, leading to fierce debates between the government and opposition.
Government’s Stand: In Line with the Constitution
Defending the initiative, Law Minister Arjun Meghwal emphasized that the ONOE bills align with the Constitution and do not infringe upon the basic structure doctrine. He claimed opposition objections were purely political in nature and reiterated the bill’s legal validity.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah further revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had proposed referring the bills to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for thorough deliberation. Shah said, “PM Modi suggested the bill should be sent to the JPC for a detailed discussion.”
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Opposition Raises Federalism and Democracy Concerns
Opposition leaders vehemently criticized the bills as an attack on the Constitution and federalism. Congress MP Manish Tewari argued that the bills violate the basic structure doctrine by undermining federal principles. He stated, “Federalism and the democratic structure are beyond the House’s amending powers.”
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi opposed the legislation, alleging it would sideline regional parties and facilitate a shift towards a presidential form of government. He labeled the initiative a ploy to maximize political gains for the ruling BJP.
Regional Leaders Join the Opposition
Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the ONOE initiative undermines the Constitution’s foundational values. “No one is more learned than the makers of our Constitution,” Yadav remarked, aligning with Congress’ stance.
Conclusion
The One Nation, One Election bills have reignited debates over federalism, the Constitution’s basic structure, and the country’s democratic principles. While the government highlights efficiency and constitutional alignment, the opposition calls it a threat to democracy and regional representation. With PM Modi’s suggestion to send the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee, the discussion is far from over.
