Former CJIs Justice Chandrachud, Justice Khehar to give presentation before JPC on simultaneous polls

In the meeting, the two former Chief Justices will give a presentation before the committee on the issue of simultaneous elections in the Joint Committee on the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Earlier in the day, the Chairperson of the JPC on One Nation One Election and Bharatiya Janata Party MP, PP Chaudhary said that most people and leaders across different states support the idea of simultaneous elections in the country.

After visiting five states and one Union Territory, Chaudhary said that many political leaders, civil society members, and officials backed the proposal, though some had concerns.

He added that the committee is discussing the issue seriously, and former Chief Justices of India will also give their views to help understand if the idea fits within the Constitution.

Speaking to ANI, Chaudhary said, "We went on a study tour to five states and one Union Territory to gather opinions on the idea of One Nation, One Election. In Maharashtra, we met with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Speaker, leaders of political parties, government officials, and civil society members. Most of them supported the idea, though some political parties had concerns, mainly about national and state issues."

"Everywhere we went, we saw that committee members from all parties are showing genuine interest in this issue. We are all thinking about what is best for the country, beyond party lines. Former Chief Justices of India, Justice Khehar and Justice DY Chandrachud, will also be speaking to us. Their guidance will help us understand if this idea fits within the Constitution," Chaudhary said.

The bill aims to conduct simultaneous elections to the legislative assemblies in the states and the Parliament. (ANI)