Assam: Phani Bhushan Choudhury, Member of Parliament from the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), has clarified his absence from Parliament on the day the “One Nation, One Election” Bill was introduced.
Speaking to reporters, Choudhury explained that a delayed flight caused him to miss the session.
Choudhury stated that the AGP will conduct internal discussions regarding the proposed legislation. However, as a member of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), he emphasized that the AGP would align with the NDA’s stance on the bill. His absence has drawn attention, especially as the bill is viewed as a significant step toward electoral reforms in the country. The AGP’s official position on the matter is expected after consultations within the party.
The introduction of the bill, which seeks to implement simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, has already sparked reactions. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is also set to issue notices to its Lok Sabha members who failed to attend the introduction of two key bills related to the initiative. Among the absentees were Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and Giriraj Singh, despite a three-line whip issued by the party mandating their presence.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, both of which aim to facilitate simultaneous elections. The bills were met with sharp opposition from rival parties, leading to a division vote. The results showed 269 members in favor of the introduction, while 196 opposed it.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the bills would now be referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further examination and consultations. He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had instructed a thorough deliberation process before taking the matter forward. The proposal has ignited considerable debate, with proponents highlighting its potential for cost-efficiency and streamlined governance, while critics express concerns over its impact on federalism and the logistical challenges it may pose.
Read More: Delhi LG Sanctions Prosecution of Arvind Kejriwal in Liquor Policy Case Ahead of Assembly Elections