On Tuesday, the government introduced the 'Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill 2024' and the Union Territories Act (Amendment) Bill 2024 for 'One Nation, One Election'. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal presented these bills in the Lok Sabha amidst significant disruption. Discussions proceeded to division, and eventually, the bill was presented. There were varied opinions from political parties on the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal. Arjun Ram Meghwal proposed presenting the bill in the house, with opposition, including the Congress party, voicing strong dissent. However, NDA's allies like Shiv Sena and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) openly supported the bill. Following the division, the bill was presented and sent to the JPC, but what were the initial stances of the parties?
Congress's Opposition
Constitutional amendment for the 'One Nation, One Election' concept was opposed by Congress, with Manish Tiwari highlighting that the bill contradicts the Constitution's Seventh Schedule and its foundational structure. He emphasized certain aspects of the Constitution that go beyond Parliament's power to amend, citing federalism as a core tenet being threatened.
Deputy Leader of Opposition Gaurav Gogoi noted that the bill undermines the Election Commission's established authority, describing consulting the Election Commission as unconstitutional. He asserted that the bill would give more power to the President, such as dissolving assemblies, which they strongly opposed, urging for the bill to be sent to the JPC for review.
Sapna's Critique of BJP
Member of Parliament from Azamgarh, Dharmendra Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, criticized the government, recalling recent pledges to uphold the Constitution and questioning the swift amendments proposed by the government as moves towards authoritarianism.
Shiv Sena (UBT) and Owaisi's Critique
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Anil Desai criticized the bill for undermining federalism, while Asaduddin Owaisi from AIMIM claimed it violated constitutional principles and parliamentary democracy, challenging the motives behind its introduction.
Left's Concerns
Left MP Amraram from Sikar observed the bill's attempts to centralize power, arguing it harms constitutional democracy and local government autonomy.
Criticism by TR Balu and Kalyan Banerjee
DMK MP TR Balu labeled the bill unconstitutional, questioning its presentation without a two-thirds majority. Kalyan Banerjee of the TMC echoed these sentiments, arguing the bill challenged constitutional autonomy and was a facade for fulfilling individual desires.
Support from Shiv Sena and TDP
Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and TDP supported the bill, claiming it would reduce election costs significantly. Central Minister Chandra Shekhar from TDP highlighted skyrocketing election expenses, voicing support for synchronized elections to cut costs.
Proposal to JPC - Amit Shah
During discussions, Home Minister Amit Shah acknowledged demands for JPC review, agreeing that the Prime Minister had suggested such scrutiny. Law Minister committed to propose sending the bill to JPC, underpinning the commitment to extensive examination before reintroduction with JPC's insights.
