State
HNLC opposes one nation, one election proposal
Shillong, Sept 1: The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s ‘one nation, one election’ proposal may serve as a vehicle to promote the Hindutva ideology, which seeks to homogenize India under the banner of Hinduism.
“Such a system could inadvertently favour a specific ideology, undermining crucial principles of secularism and religious neutrality in Indian governance. This concern raises questions about the fundamental values that underpin India’s democracy and the protection of minority rights,” HNLC general secretary-cum-publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said in a statement.
Nongtraw said this initiative may transform India from a democracy into a theocracy, favouring the Hindutva ideology and the establishment of a Hindu Rastra.
“However, it is essential to recognize that India is a union of states, akin to the United States, comprising diverse princely states that voluntarily joined the country, some under coercive circumstances. This article aims to shed light on the concerns raised by various political parties, pressure groups, and individuals concerning the potential impact on India’s political landscape and democratic principles,” he said.
Stating that it will challenge India’s diversity and democratic principles, Nongtraw said the proposal for a uniform election system, known as ‘one nation, one election,’ has drawn attention due to its potential effect on India’s diverse political fabric.