The Daily PulseGeneral
Economists give views to Parliament panel on simultaneous polls
Reported by Rohit Yadav (Staff Writer) · The Hindu - National ·
Reported by one source so far
Economists including S. Gurumurthy and Shamika Ravi appeared before a Parliamentary Committee on Friday, October 30, 2026, to share their views on holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies. Bharatiya Janata Party MP P.P. Chaudhary, who leads the Joint Committee reviewing the Constitution Amendment Bill and Union Territories Laws Amendment Bill from 2024, stated that their inputs will be valuable.
Background
These Bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha in December 2024 and sent to the committee for review. They are based on recommendations from a panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which included Union Home Minister Amit Shah and suggested holding elections in a phased way. India held simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies from 1951 to 1967, covering the polls in 1951-52, 1957, 1962, and 1967. This cycle broke down in 1968 and 1969 due to early state assembly dissolutions and early dissolution of the fourth Lok Sabha in 1970.
Context
Parliamentary committees in India frequently invite outside experts, stakeholders, and specialists to examine major legislative proposals in detail before they go for a final vote. The concept of simultaneous elections aims to reduce the heavy financial cost and administrative burden of holding frequent polls across the country. Such systemic changes require broad political agreement and constitutional amendments to align the different terms of elected bodies.
ExplainerWhy this matters
What Happened
A Parliamentary joint committee is examining proposed legislation to bring back simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies across India, following recommendations from a panel led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.
Why It Matters
Holding elections all at once could greatly reduce the massive financial expenses and administrative deployment required for frequent polls. However, it also raises complex constitutional questions about how to manage state assembly terms if governments fall before completing five years.
What Happens Next
The Parliamentary committee will continue reviewing inputs from experts and stakeholders before submitting its report and recommendations on the Bills to Parliament for further debate and legislative action.
More in General
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsGeneralUnconfirmed — Reported by one source so farWorth knowing
Modi accuses hidden forces of sowing unrest as opposition sharpens critique ahead of Delhi rally
Reported by Kavya Rao (Senior Writer) · Indian Express - India ·
