New Delhi: The High-Level Committee (HLC) formed by the Government of India, chaired by Shri Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India, convened a meeting in New Delhi to address the matter of simultaneous elections in the country. The committee, tasked with examining the feasibility of holding simultaneous elections and providing recommendations, assessed the progress made during the meeting.
In attendance were prominent figures, including Shri Amit Shah, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation; Shri N. K. Singh, former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission; Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, former Secretary General of Lok Sabha; Shri Sanjay Kothari, former Chief Vigilance Commissioner; and Shri Harish Salve, senior advocate. The collective review encompassed activities undertaken and advancements achieved thus far.
Chairman Shri Kovind conducted a series of consultations on the issue with eminent legal minds, including Justice S.A. Bobde, former Chief Justice of India; Justice Dipak Misra, former Chief Justice of India; and Justice D.N Patel, former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court.
The meeting and consultations signify the government’s proactive approach in addressing the complexities and considerations surrounding the concept of simultaneous elections. The HLC, through its comprehensive review and engagements with legal experts, aims to provide informed recommendations that align with the democratic principles and constitutional framework of the country. The deliberations mark a crucial step in the ongoing discourse on electoral reforms in India.