Simultaneous elections likely only after 2034, says Nirmala Sitharaman

Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified on Saturday that the implementation of the 'One Nation, One Election' initiative will not happen before 2034, dismissing claims that it will be introduced in the upcoming general elections.

Speaking at an event, the minister criticised what she described as a misinformation campaign surrounding the concept, stating that some political parties are opposing it without understanding its benefits.

Highlighting the financial impact of frequent elections, Sitharaman noted that nearly ₹1 lakh crore was spent during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections alone. According to her, holding simultaneous elections could significantly reduce such expenses and contribute to economic growth.

“If elections for the Parliament and State Assemblies are held together, it can boost India’s GDP by 1.5%, translating to an economic gain of ₹4.5 lakh crore,” she said, calling it a clear example of how the model could benefit the country.

Sitharaman emphasised that the idea isn't new and was a common practice until the 1960s, and that the current government is only laying the groundwork for future implementation. Final approval, she said, would rest with the President of India at that time.

She also pointed out that the late DMK leader M. Karunanidhi had expressed support for the idea in the past, contrasting it with the current stance of his son and present Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who is opposing the initiative.