Himachal Pradesh Touts Reform Over 'One Nation, One Election' Proposals Amid JPC Visits

In a critical meeting held in Shimla on Wednesday, senior parliamentarian P P Chaudhary-led Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 gathered to discuss "One Nation, One Election" proposals with Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri.

The committee members received a traditional welcome from the Chief Minister, marking a significant moment in their nationwide consultation process. Member of Parliament from Hamirpur and JPC member Anurag Thakur also participated in the deliberation session to strengthen democratic principles.

Speaking with media after the meeting, Chief Minister Sukhu expressed his state's stance against "One Nation, One Election" bill while presenting constructive suggestions towards reinforcing democratic values. Notably, the Himachal Pradesh government has proposed annually-held by-elections to uphold democratic standards.

In their visit to Shimla, JPC is set to gather feedback from stakeholders nationwide on proposed constitutional amendments, emphasizing the importance of open consultation for a unified nation's electoral policies.