Former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb has strongly endorsed the ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) initiative, emphasizing its potential to save time, money, and resources while fostering political stability and accelerating development. Speaking at a series of conventions in West Tripura district, Deb highlighted the historical context of simultaneous elections and criticized opposition parties for their inconsistent stance on the matter.
Deb pointed out that simultaneous elections were the norm in India until 1967, but the cycle was disrupted due to the misuse of Article 356 to topple state governments. He argued that ONOE would streamline governance, reduce political hostility, and enable governments to focus on long-term plans and welfare programs. “With the savings from ONOE, Prime Minister Narendra Modi could launch many more schemes for the development and welfare of the people,” Deb stated.
The former CM also addressed the financial burden of frequent elections, noting that the 2024 general elections cost approximately ₹1.35 lakh crore. He asserted that ONOE would allow the government to channel funds more efficiently into developmental initiatives, benefiting the country’s GDP and administrative efficiency.
Deb’s remarks come as the Joint Parliamentary Committee, led by BJP MP P.P. Chaudhary, continues to study the ONOE Bill and gather opinions from various stakeholders. The initiative has sparked nationwide discussions on its feasibility and impact on India’s democratic framework.
As the debate over ONOE unfolds, Deb’s advocacy underscores the BJP’s commitment to implementing the initiative as a milestone in achieving Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047. The proposal remains a focal point in India’s political discourse, with supporters and critics weighing its implications for the nation’s future.
