Kovind panel to submit simultaneous polls report
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The Ram Nath Kovind-led high-level committee studying simultaneous national and assembly elections is poised to submit its report to President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday, after five months of deliberation. The committee, likely to propose simultaneous polls in 2029, will address procedural and logistical concerns. It emphasizes extensive stakeholder consultations, incorporating recommendations from 15th finance commission chair NK Singh and IMF’s Prachi Mishra on economic viability.
Utilizing data from past elections, the report argues for the feasibility of simultaneous polls, emphasizing potential benefits such as reduced expenses and enhanced governance. While the BJP and allied parties endorse the idea, opposition parties like Congress, RJD, TMC, and others remain skeptical, citing constitutional and logistical challenges. Dig deeper
Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader HD Kumaraswamy disclosed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has agreed to allocate three seats to the regional party for the upcoming elections. The decision, reached in discussions with BJP leaders, assigns JD(S) to contest in Hassan, Kolar, and Mandya constituencies. Kumaraswamy cited resource limitations for not pursuing additional seats, emphasizing his party’s endurance under his leadership for 17 years.
While JD(S) has nominated Prajwal Revanna for Hassan, discussions are ongoing for candidates in Mandya and Kolar. Despite their alliance in Karnataka and formal inclusion in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), official confirmation of seat allocation is pending from both parties. JD(S) asserts its resilience despite setbacks, referencing past electoral defeats and expressing optimism for the upcoming polls.
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Kovind Panel to Submit Simultaneous Polls Report: A panel led by former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) B.S. Chauhan, appointed by President Ram Nath Kovind to examine the feasibility of holding simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies, is set to submit its report. The panel’s recommendations are expected to address the logistical, constitutional, and political challenges associated with implementing simultaneous polls.
JD(S) on Seat-Sharing Deal: The Janata Dal (Secular) party, led by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, is engaged in discussions regarding seat-sharing arrangements with its alliance partners ahead of upcoming elections. With negotiations ongoing, the party aims to finalize strategic alliances to maximize its electoral prospects in key constituencies.
COVID-19 Updates: Health authorities continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely, with efforts focused on vaccination drives, testing, and containment measures. As cases fluctuate in different regions, vigilance remains paramount to prevent further spread of the virus and safeguard public health.
Economic Outlook: Economists and policymakers are closely monitoring economic indicators amid ongoing global uncertainties and domestic challenges. Strategies to stimulate economic growth, boost employment, and address inflationary pressures are under consideration to support India’s recovery from the pandemic-induced slowdown.
Geopolitical Developments: India remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to navigate geopolitical dynamics and foster international cooperation. Discussions on regional security, trade partnerships, and strategic alliances are ongoing, reflecting India’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond.
Weather Update: Meteorological agencies are providing regular updates on weather patterns, forecasting conditions to help communities prepare for potential natural events. With the onset of seasonal changes, attention is focused on monitoring weather phenomena and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events.
As the day unfolds, stakeholders across various sectors will continue to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and work towards advancing India’s socio-economic development and strategic interests. Stay tuned for further updates on these and other developments throughout the day.
