Agartala, Feb 26: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has voiced strong support for the implementation of 'One Nation, One Election', emphasizing its potential to enhance democratic participation, streamline governance, and reduce financial burdens.

Speaking at a discussion on ‘One Nation, One Election’ at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhawan, Dr. Saha highlighted how frequent elections disrupt administrative functions, impact education, and strain public resources.

He asserted that holding elections once every five years would simplify the electoral process, encourage higher voter turnout, and allow uninterrupted governance.

He pointed out that frequent elections result in the repeated enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, delaying crucial government decisions and development projects.

Additionally, elections require massive logistical arrangements, including the deployment of security forces and teachers for polling duties.

Dr. Saha further highlighted that in states like Tripura, where elections occur frequently, government schools are often converted into polling stations, causing disruptions in academic activities. 

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push for electoral reforms, the Chief Minister noted that the proposal for ‘One Nation, One Election’ had been discussed in Parliament in 2024, leading to the formation of a dedicated committee to explore its feasibility. He added that the initiative would save thousands of crores of rupees spent on conducting elections repeatedly.

Expressing optimism about the initiative’s potential, Dr. Saha stated, this reform is the need of the hour. It will bring stability, encourage democratic participation, and ensure that governance remains focused on progress rather than electoral cycles.