The ongoing debate about the 'One Country, One Election' proposal has gained attention as legal experts and judges weigh in on its feasibility. While Harish Salve supports the idea, Justice Shah has raised serious questions regarding its legal and constitutional implications.

The ‘One Country, One Election’ Proposal

• The idea behind 'One Country, One Election' is to hold general elections and state elections simultaneously, reducing the frequency of elections.
• This would theoretically lead to cost savings, reduced election cycles, and faster policy implementation.
• Proponents argue that this system could make governance more efficient and encourage national-level focus.

Harish Salve’s Support for the Proposal

• Harish Salve, a well-known lawyer, has expressed his support for the concept, claiming it would streamline the election process.
• He believes that this reform would lead to political stability and reduce the financial burden of holding multiple elections.
• Salve suggests that the proposal could also increase voter turnout by synchronizing elections and making the process more uniform across the country.

Justice Shah’s Concerns

• Justice Shah, a senior judge, raised constitutional and legal concerns about the practicality of implementing the proposal.
• He questioned how simultaneous elections could align with the current structure of India’s federal system.
• The judge pointed out that such a system might be difficult to apply without significant constitutional amendments, especially regarding the tenure of state assemblies and the distribution of powers between the center and states.

Political Reactions and Public Opinion

• The proposal has generated divided opinions across political parties.
• Some parties see it as an opportunity for political consolidation, while others fear it may undermine regional voices and increase the centralization of power.
• Public reaction has been mixed, with some supporting the potential efficiency gains, while others worry about the impact on regional issues and local governance.

Next Steps in the Debate

• Deliberations on the proposal will continue, and a final decision will likely require thorough legal scrutiny and constitutional amendments.
• Experts suggest that a national referendum or wide political consensus may be necessary before such a monumental change is implemented.