Multiple elections incompatible with nation’s consistent growth, development: Dr Jitendra
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, addressing a programme titled “Students for One Nation One Election” at the University of Jammu (JU), strongly advocated for simultaneous elections across India, calling them essential for consistent national development and effective governance.
Dr. Singh argued that the current practice of frequent elections disrupts governance, leads to policy paralysis, and results in a significant drain on financial and human resources. He said the continuous electoral cycle encourages the culture of freebies, opportunism, and distracts political parties from governance. “Such haphazard elections also tend to corrupt the voter,” he remarked.
He cited global examples like the United States, where elections are held at fixed intervals. Even during critical moments-such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy or the resignation of President Richard Nixon-no midterm elections were held. Instead, the Vice Presidents took over and served out the remainder of the terms, thereby preserving electoral stability.
Dr. Singh stressed that the time has come to implement the concept of “One Nation, One Election”, describing it as a transformative electoral reform.
He referred to the report submitted by the committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which found that over 80% of citizens support simultaneous elections. The committee gathered extensive public and expert feedback, analysing both benefits and challenges.
He pointed out that political parties opposing this reform often do so due to narrow, vested interests. “The current electoral cycle diverts attention from development. Political energy is channelled more into securing electoral victories than delivering good governance,” he stated.
Calling on students to engage with and study the issue, Dr. Singh said youth are the key drivers of change. “History is witness that revolutions are born out of student movements,” he said, highlighting that over 70% of India’s population is under 40 and will be future policymakers and leaders of Viksit Bharat.
He also praised the Modi government’s efforts in democratising opportunities for youth, citing schemes like Startup India, Stand Up India, and PM SvaNidhi Yojana. He lauded the rise of women entrepreneurs and startups from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
The Mudra Yojana, he added, is empowering small enterprises by providing loans up to Rs 10 lakh, fostering employment and self-reliance.
Dr. Singh concluded by encouraging students to be informed opinion makers and play an active role in shaping India’s democratic and developmental journey.
