Mumbai: The question of holding elections using ballot papers does not fall under the purview of the parliamentary committee examining the two bills on simultaneous polls, the Union law ministry has stated.
Observation Made By The Union Law Ministry
Reverting to the ballot paper system was merely a "suggestion” from some committee members, to which the ministry was expected to respond in writing. However, while the Legislative Department provided detailed answers to various queries, it avoided a direct response on this matter.
The ministry clarified that the ballot paper suggestion was "out of scope” for the panel, whose mandate is to review the Constitution (120th Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories ~ Laws (Amendment) Bill. These bills aim to create a legal framework for simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections and align the terms of legislative assemblies in Delhi, Puducherry, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Sources emphasized that the panel is not examining the method of voting—whether via electronic voting machines (EVMs) or ballot papers. The government has consistently opposed returning to paper ballots, and the Supreme Court has dismissed concerns over EVM tampering as "unfounded."
While the ministry addressed some committee queries, others were forwarded to the Election Commission for a "calibrated response." The ministry also defended the democratic validity of simultaneous elections, noting they were the norm from 1951 to 1967 before being disrupted by premature dissolutions and the imposition of President’s rule.
A government explainer on "One Nation, One Election" highlighted how staggered electoral cycles distract leaders from governance. The high-level committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, recommended synchronised elections to enhance administrative stability
