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Key insights
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Election Frequency Reduction: The proposal aims to minimize the number of elections held.
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Constitutional Flexibility: The Ministry argues that the Constitution allows for changes in election tenure.
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Election Commission's Role: The Election Commission will maintain its authority under the new framework.
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What happened
The Union Law Ministry has submitted a defense of the simultaneous elections proposal to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). It asserts that the plan does not violate the Constitution's basic structure or federal principles. The Ministry argues that curtailing government tenure for synchronization of elections is permissible, citing constitutional provisions that allow for premature dissolution. It highlights that the five-year term is not absolute and can be altered. The Ministry also addresses concerns regarding the Election Commission's powers, stating that it already has autonomy under existing laws. The proposal aims to reduce the frequency of elections and associated costs, which have historically disrupted governance. The JPC will further discuss this with the Law Commission and Election Commission representatives.