Expanded Panel to Review 'One Nation, One Election' Bill Amid Ongoing Debate

The Parliamentary Committee now has 39 members as the contentious bill faces strong opposition over federalism and constitutional concerns.

The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) reviewing the 'One Nation, One Election' bill has increased its membership from 31 to 39, including representatives from smaller parties after demands for broader inclusion.
The proposed constitutional amendment aims to align Lok Sabha, state assembly, and local body elections but requires significant constitutional changes, including a two-thirds majority in Parliament and state ratifications.
Opposition parties argue the bill undermines India's federal structure and democratic accountability, while the ruling BJP asserts it will streamline governance and reduce election costs.
The JPC includes 27 Lok Sabha members and 12 from the Rajya Sabha, with BJP MP PP Chaudhary appointed as the committee's chairman.
The committee is tasked with submitting its report by the first day of the last week of the 2025 budget session, as political divisions persist over the bill's implications.