The Union Cabinet has reportedly approved the One Nation, One Election policy on Thursday and is expected to introduce a comprehensive Bill on the matter during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament.

The idea of 'One Nation, One Election' was first proposed by the central government and backed by a High-Level Committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind in March this year. The proposal suggests conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies.

In its report, the Committee highlighted the widespread support for simultaneous elections, noting that it could accelerate development and strengthen democratic processes across the country.

While some constitutional amendments required for simultaneous elections will need ratification by state legislatures, others can be implemented through Parliament without state approval, the report states.

On September 18, the Union Cabinet accepted the recommendations of the High-Level Committee.

Importantly, four former Chief Justices of India (CJIs) who were consulted by the Committee voiced their support for the proposal. Former CJIs Dipak Misra, Ranjan Gogoi, Sharad Arvind Bobde, and UU Lalit participated in consultations, both in person and through written responses, all expressing their backing for simultaneous elections.

Out of twelve former High Court judges who were consulted, nine supported the idea of simultaneous elections, while three raised concerns and objections. Those expressing reservations include former Delhi High Court Chief Justice AP Shah, former Calcutta High Court judge Justice Girish Chandra Gupta, and former Madras High Court Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee.