Farooq Abdullah Questions BJP's 'One Nation-One Election' Plan

Ganderbal (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], September 17: National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Monday questioned the BJP-led government over its intention to implement the 'One Nation-One Election' concept during its current tenure. He asked how the government plans to bring various political parties on board for a suggestion that has wide ramifications and many queries.

Farooq Abdullah, a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, said, "They (Centre) had brute majority when they raised this issue. What was the motive? To set a precedent. This is a federal structure. Unity in diversity, that is India. How will they bring everyone onboard? There is election in our state but not in other states. Suppose my government fell and then they will put president rule till the next election comes. What is the motive behind this? Who are you fooling?"

Sources said on Sunday that the BJP-led government will continue to work on the agenda promised in 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was first sworn in as PM, and is committed to holding simultaneous general and assembly elections. The BJP hopes to gain support from other political parties as well.

Several opposition parties and chief ministers of opposition-ruled states have opposed the idea of 'One Nation-One Election'. Prime Minister Modi has been advocating for reforms in the electoral process and the holding of simultaneous general and assembly elections. The High-Level Committee on 'One Nation-One Election', led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, stated in its report that frequent elections create an atmosphere of uncertainty and impact policy decisions. Holding simultaneous elections would bring enhanced certainty in policy making.