Holding elections across India is a major task that involves time, money and large teams of workers. The debate over conducting national and state elections together has now drawn attention to its wider economic effects.
Economists from the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) have shared their views with a Joint Parliamentary Committee examining the proposed One Nation, One Election plan.
The economists said frequent elections can affect private investment and business plans. EAC-PM Chairman Prof. S. Mahendra Dev reportedly told the panel that uncertainty around elections can lead companies to reduce their spending on new projects.
EAC-PM member Dr. Shamika Ravi also highlighted the possible impact on low-income families and Centre-State coordination. Part-time member Prof. Pami Dua raised concerns about the effect of election rules on government work and spending.
The committee, led by BJP MP P. P. Chaudhary, is examining the bills related to holding elections together. The views shared by the economists will form part of its wider review.
