EC supports simultaneous polls, includes changes for implementation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has raised an objection to simultaneous polls indicating that significant hurdles will be caused if the national elections are aligned with state polls.

While the Election Commission has supported simultaneous polls, changes need to implemented including the extension of state legislatures to coincide with LS polls.

Five Articles of the Constitution may need amendments -

Article 83 - deal with duration of Houses of Parliament

Article 85 - dissolution of the Lok Sabha by the President

Article 172 - duration of state legislatures

Article 174 - dissolution of state assemblies and

Article 356

A consensus of all state governments needs to be obtained and additional EVMs/VVPATs worth about Rs 2,000 crore will be required.

In a statement released by the EC, it said, "In order to avoid premature dissolution, it may be provided that any 'no-confidence motion' moved against the government in office should also necessarily include a further 'confidence motion' in favour of a government to be headed by a named individual as the future PM and voting should take place for two motions together."