Opposition Demands Fair Elections Amid ‘One Nation, One Election’ Controversy

New Delhi, Sep 01, 2023: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has criticized the Central government’s decision to form a committee to study the ‘one nation, one election’ proposal, suggesting it’s a move to “postpone” the Opposition’s demand for fair elections. Raut’s comments come as the Centre sets up a committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, to explore the feasibility of simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.

While acknowledging the idea of ‘one nation, one election,’ Raut emphasized the need for fair elections, stating, “We demand a fair election; this is our slogan. They (Centre) have brought this to postpone our demand for a fair election.”

Raut went on to describe the Centre’s decision as a ‘conspiracy’ to expedite elections, implying that it might not be in the best interest of the nation.

Critiquing Kovind’s appointment as committee head, Raut took a swipe at the BJP-ruled Centre, saying, “When he was the President, the government did not pay any attention to him, and now he is being given responsibility after getting retired.”

Anil Desai, another Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, emphasized the importance of presenting the ‘one nation, one election’ concept to all political parties for discussion and deliberation before reaching a decision.

The ‘one nation, one election’ proposal seeks to synchronize Lok Sabha and state assembly elections across India. However, the Opposition’s call for fair and transparent elections remains a central concern amid ongoing political discussions surrounding this issue.