Gondia Youth Parliament students back One Nation One Election, with democracy safeguards

A district-level Youth Parliament held in Gondia on the 4th discussed the issue of 'One Nation, One Election'. The view that emerged was that the concept is necessary for the country, but that keeping democracy strong, representing citizens of every section and protecting the values of the Constitution are just as important while implementing it. Students from different colleges in the district put forward their views and debated several aspects of electoral reforms seriously.

Deputy Director of the department Saurabh Kumar Nishad said the Youth Parliament was organised at S. S. Girls College by Mera Yuva Bharat, Gondia, under the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

The students said the concept could help save the time, money and manpower spent on frequent elections. They also said that, so that the importance of all components of democracy and the representation of citizens are maintained, the necessary changes to the Constitution should be made as per the rules.

At the inauguration, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Dinesh Shukla appealed to young people to stay true to their goals and keep trying. He said it was necessary to keep trying until the desired goal is achieved.

Chief guest S. Narayana Murthy, principal of Agrawal College, Salekasa, asked students to study the given topic in depth and present their views effectively. He also appealed to citizens to understand the importance of their right to vote. S. S. Girls College principal Sharda Mahajan welcomed the young men and women who had come from different parts of the district and extended her good wishes. She praised this initiative of the Government of India for giving young people a platform to speak.

District Information Officer Anju Kamble Nimsarkar, Sangeeta Ghosh of Rajiv Gandhi Social Worker College, former lecturer Deepti Chauragade, content creator Rahul Verma and Brijesh Gajbhiye served as judges of the competition.

Nimsarkar pointed out shortcomings in the students' presentations and explained what points could be added to make the topic more effective. Prof. Chauragade, describing the current status of the 'One Nation, One Election' Bill, said it is under consideration of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) of the Lok Sabha and is being discussed. She also gave factual information about the government process for such bills and its various stages.

Content creator Rahul Verma shared his experiences with the students. He said that if young people recognise the qualities hidden within them and give them the right direction, new career opportunities can open up. Sangeeta Ghosh announced the district-level results and said that the students who were not selected had also made a good effort.

Ishwari Khatwani of S. S. Girls College worked especially hard to make the event a success. Prof. Rajshree Wagh conducted the programme and Prof. Disha Gedam proposed the vote of thanks. A large number of students from different colleges took part.