‘One nation, one election’ a conspiracy to curb rights of States: Siddaramaiah

Like Kerala, Karnataka will consider passing a resolution opposing the proposal in consultation with the high command, says Chief Minister

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Thursday that the Union Cabinet’s approval of the ‘One nation, one election’ Bill was “not only an assault on parliamentary democracy and the federal structure of India but also a sinister conspiracy to curb the rights of States”.

Kerala’s stand

Taking to social media, Mr. Siddaramaiah noted that the Kerala government had already passed a resolution opposing the proposal and communicated its dissent to the Centre. “If needed, our government will also consult the Congress high command and adopt a similar resolution to send a strong message against this anti-democratic move.”

The Chief Minister said, “At a time when the current electoral system is in dire need of reforms, such a Bill will only weaken the foundations of democracy further. Before approving such a critical Bill, the Modi government should have consulted Opposition parties and State governments. However, true to its authoritarian tendencies, the BJP-led Central government is trying to impose this undemocratic proposal on the country.”

He said that the proposal provides no solutions to the crises that arise when the ruling party loses its majority in the Lok Sabha or State Assemblies. “In such situations, the only democratic remedy is to conduct fresh elections. Allowing a minority government to continue in power despite losing confidence would be nothing short of treachery against democracy,” he said.

‘Flawed system’

To implement such a flawed electoral system, amendments to the Representation of the People Act and at least five key provisions of the Constitution would be required. Moreover, the current Election Commission lacks the capacity and resources to conduct simultaneous elections across the entire country.

The Chief Minister said the move was “not about electoral reforms but about consolidating power and undermining the democratic spirit of our nation”.

Published - December 12, 2024 08:56 pm IST