Guwahati – Dr. Hafiz Rafiqul Islam, MLA from Assam and General Secretary of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), has strongly criticized the central government’s proposal for “One Nation, One Election,” describing it as “unnecessary” and “impossible to implement.” His remarks add to the growing chorus of dissent from opposition leaders concerned about the policy’s implications for India’s democratic framework.
Speaking on the contentious proposal, Dr. Islam said, “I believe that ‘One Nation, One Election’ is not needed. It is almost an impossible task. Despite the order being passed, it is very difficult to implement.” He cautioned that the policy could undermine the democratic process, asserting, “If it is implemented, then there will not be free and fair elections. It is an attack on the federal structure of the country.”
Drawing parallels with the 2016 demonetization policy, which he labeled a “great failure,” Dr. Islam warned that the simultaneous elections proposal could lead to widespread disruption and adverse consequences. “It will be just like demonetisation, a great failure,” he remarked, underscoring his concerns about the potential fallout of the initiative.
The “One Nation, One Election” policy, aimed at synchronizing Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, has been a polarizing topic. Proponents argue that it could streamline the electoral process, reduce costs, and minimize the disruption caused by frequent elections. However, critics like Dr. Islam have raised serious concerns about its feasibility and its impact on the federal structure and democratic integrity of the country.
Political analysts note that implementing simultaneous elections would require constitutional amendments, alignment of electoral terms across states, and significant logistical changes—challenges that have fueled skepticism among opposition leaders and state governments.
As the debate continues, the central government faces mounting pressure to address concerns raised by leaders like Dr. Islam, who argue that the proposal could erode the autonomy of states and undermine the nation’s diverse and decentralized political system. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the proposal gains traction or meets resistance from across the political spectrum.
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