What is 'One Nation One Poll'? From its concept to the stand of different political parties, here's everything you need to know

In a step towards a major reform that numerous political commentators and leaders have cited as being crucial to determining the pace of India's future development, BJP President Amit Shah has written a letter to the Law Commission regarding 'One Nation One Poll'. In the letter, he has stated that BJP is ready for an open debate with the opposition in this regard. 

What is 'One Nation One Poll'?

One Nation one poll is the concept of simultaneous elections that is simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections. If 'One Nation One Poll' is implemented then:

• All state polls will be held simultaneously
• State polls and general elections will be synchronized
• More governance, less disruption
• Massive savings for the exchequer
• No exhausting of resources for repeated polls
• Better utilization of security resources
• Mitigating scope for dirty campaigns
• Polarisation won't be a bi-annual affair
• A boost in long-term productivity of both houses

Earlier, the Law Commission invited all the political parties to hold a discussion on 'One Nation One Poll'. Republic TV had accessed exclusive details of the day-long set of meetings that took place at the Law Commission. 

Following parties took part in the discussion:

• Samajwadi Party
• Trinamool Congress
• Rashtriya Lok Dal
• Biju Janata Dal
• DMK
• AIADMK
• Forward Bloc

Read: BJP President Amit Shah Writes To Law Commission On 'One Nation One Poll', Says 'ready For An Open Debate With The Opposition'

However, the Opposition did not play the ball on the Modi government’s proposal to hold simultaneous elections. In the absence of any clear consensus, here are the most recent stands of the political parties that have spoken on the issue:

TMC: 

The Trinamool Congress party's representative opposed the idea before the law panel citing legal obstacles as well as by raising questions over what would happen in case an alliance government.

TDP:

The TDP has also opposed 'One Nation One Poll', alleging that it is meant at weakening regional parties.

Goa Forward Party:

The Goa Forward Party, which is a part of the BJP-led government in Goa, has also opposed the move, calling it "impractical".

Congress:

Rahul Gandhi-led party has not yet given any firm stand on the issue. The only communication was from Puducherry CM V Narayanasamy who opposed the move but has responded in his capacity as CM and not on behalf of the Congress.