Archive · 17 Aug 2025
Ex-Chief Justice Khanna Comments on Election Bill to Committee
Imagine the government wants to change how elections happen in the country.
A former top judge, Mr. Khanna, spoke to a group of lawmakers about it.
He said just because something is allowed by the rules, doesn't mean it's a good idea.
He worries that this new plan could give too much power to a group that organizes elections and might even let the government take over states if elections get delayed.
Some people like the plan, saying it'll save money, but others worry it's not fair and might not be good for democracy.
Former Chief Justice of India Sanjeev Khanna addressed a parliamentary committee on the 'one nation one election' bill.
Khanna stated that constitutional validity doesn't equate to the desirability or necessity of the bill's provisions.
He raised concerns about the bill's potential to weaken the federal structure and grant too much power to the Election Commission.
Khanna noted that the Election Commission's discretion in postponing elections could lead to indirect presidential rule.
The article mentions differing viewpoints, with the BJP supporting the bill and the Opposition raising concerns.
- Who
- Sanjeev Khanna, other former Chief Justices, BJP and Opposition members.
- What
- Former Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna gave his views on the simultaneous election bill to a parliamentary committee.
- When
- The article doesn't specify exactly when Khanna addressed the committee, but mentions he interacted on Tuesday.
- Where
- Parliamentary committee
- Why
- To discuss the constitutional implications and desirability of the 'one nation one election' bill.
Concerns over Bill's Impact
Support for the Bill's Aims
Federal Structure
Concerns over Bill's Impact
The proposed bill may dilute the federal structure.
Support for the Bill's Aims
The bill is supported by the BJP and allies for economic reasons.
Power of Election Commission
Concerns over Bill's Impact
Giving the Election Commission "unfettered discretion" could lead to indirect presidential rule.
Support for the Bill's Aims
The bill is expected to boost growth and cut expenditure caused by relentless poll cycles.
- Key Figure
- Sanjeev Khanna
- Committee Head
- BJP MP P P Chaudhary
- Bill Subject
- Simultaneous Elections
- Article 14
- Deals with equality before law
- Supporters
- BJP and allies
- Opponents
- Opposition