BJP Moves to Implement ‘One Nation, One Election’ in 2029 Lok Sabha Polls

New Delhi: The BJP-led government is moving to implement its political agenda of ‘One Nation, One Election’ along with the 2029 general elections. The plan is to hold Assembly elections in 22 states and Union Territories governed by the NDA simultaneously with the next Lok Sabha election. The Centre is also preparing to get the Bill passed during the upcoming winter session of Parliament.

The Bill is currently under the consideration of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). Since it is a Constitution Amendment Bill, it requires a two-thirds majority for passage. NDA sources have indicated that if the Bill fails to clear Parliament, the Assemblies of NDA-ruled states could be dissolved and elections held simultaneously.

Assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Odisha are already held alongside the Lok Sabha elections. In other states, Assemblies may have to be dissolved before completing their existing terms to synchronise the election schedule. Of the 22 states where the NDA is in power, 11 are due to hold Assembly elections within the next two years. The terms of several Assemblies could be shortened by three to four years. In Union Territories such as Delhi, the Assembly's term could be reduced by around a year.

The Bill aimed at implementing the RSS's key agenda of ‘One Nation, One Election’ was introduced in the Lok Sabha in December 2024. Following strong opposition, including from the Left parties, it was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. The proposed amendments concern Articles 82, 83, 172 and 327 of the Constitution. The JPC comprises 39 members — 27 from the Lok Sabha and 12 from the Rajya Sabha.

The RSS-BJP-led Centre argues that simultaneous elections would save substantial public money and prevent development activities from being repeatedly disrupted by elections. However, the BJP's underlying strategy is allegedly to use simultaneous elections to control and shape the campaign agenda in its favour.