Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 18: Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch, organized significant prelude conference on the theme “One Nation One Election”.
Prof Suresh Misra, Chair Professor (Consumer Affairs) at the Centre for Consumer Studies, IIPA, New Delhi, delivered the keynote address. B R Sharma, IAS (Retd), and Chairman of IIPA JKRB, served as the chief guest, while Kuldeep Khoda, former DGP of J&K Police, presided over the event.
In his keynote address, Prof Misra explored the concept of simultaneous elections, referencing international examples from countries such as South Africa, Germany, Sweden, Belgium, Indonesia, and the Philippines. He said that the proposed electoral reform aims to implement a two-step process for Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, with Panchayat and local urban body elections within 100 days.
He highlighted expected merits which include continuity of governance, greater emphasis on policy implementation, reduced expenditure and single voter list. He also acknowledged potential demerits, including the risk of overshadowing regional issues by national concerns and neglecting local needs. He emphasized the importance of building consensus, particularly given the frequency of elections and the necessity of Model Code of Conduct to maintain electoral integrity.
B R Sharma, in his address, highlighted the significance of making democratic processes which empower citizens and enhance their engagement with the Government. His insights reinforced the critical role of informed citizen participation in strengthening democracy and ensuring that governance remains transparent and responsive to the needs of the populace.
In his presidential remarks, Kuldeep Khoda emphasized the importance of collating diverse opinions to drive major electoral reforms. He discussed the necessity of a coordinated approach in managing elections, particularly in deploying security forces to ensure a smooth electoral process.
K B Jandial, IAS (Retd), Vice Chairman IIPA, in his welcome address set the context for the conference by discussing the multifaceted implications of the “One Nation One Election” proposal. Prof Alka Sharma, Honorary Secretary, presented the formal vote of thanks, while the proceedings were conducted by Prof Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary.
The program was attended by officials from the State Election Commission, media representatives, faculty and students from the University of Jammu, members of IIPA, and eminent individuals from civil society and the Central Government Pensioners Association, Jammu.
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