Jurists for Justice Foundation Adopts Resolution Supporting One Nation, One Election
A Round Table Conference on "One Nation, One Election" (ONOE), organised by the Jurists for Justice Foundation in Maharashtra, concluded with the adoption of a resolution in favour of holding simultaneous elections across the country. The event brought together nearly 50 jurists, former High Court judges, academicians, senior advocates, and financial experts to deliberate on the merits and implementation framework of the proposal.
Maharashtra Cabinet Minister for Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Malabar Hill MLA Mangal Prabhat Lodha attended the conference as the Chief Guest and extended his support to ONOE. Lodha stated that simultaneous elections would enhance government efficiency and benefit national development.
"India represents the largest and oldest democracy. The proposal of ONOE will enhance government efficiency and enrich the democratic process of the country. So, overall it is most beneficial for the country," Lodha said during his address.
The proceedings opened with the lighting of the ceremonial diya and the singing of "Vande Mataram", following a welcome address by Umesh Kumar Sirohi, President of the Jurists for Justice Foundation. Prof. Pritesh Arte delivered the keynote address, setting the stage for core deliberations.
Eight speakers presented views supporting the initiative from various professional angles. Former Justice B.P. Deshpande and former Principal District Judge Nagesh V. Nhavakar, currently a Member of the Maharashtra State Special Public Security Advisory Board, addressed constitutional dimensions. Former District Judges Meeratai Khadakkar and Chanda Nathani also extended support.
Additional Solicitor General of India Senior Advocate Anil Singh highlighted practical implementation aspects, while former ACP Avinash Dharmadhikari discussed how simultaneous polls could ease strains on police deployment. Chartered Accountant Ravi Pani spoke on economic and financial benefits, and intellectual property rights expert Prof. Adv. Dipak Parmar examined connections to the IPR framework.
Following delegate discussions, the conference reached a broad consensus despite some dissenting voices and formally passed the draft resolution. Former Justice Vivek Bharti Sharma delivered the valedictory address, sharing insights from his judicial experience in Uttarakhand. Umesh Kumar Sirohi acknowledged dissenting views, comparing frequent elections to an illness and ONOE to an effective remedy. Organising Committee President Amarnath Mishra concluded the session with a vote of thanks.
