'One Nation, One Election' is Hitler-esque, will trigger nationwide revolt if imposed: Assam MLA

Raijor Dal chief and Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi on July 16 launched a scathing attack on the Centre's proposed 'One Nation, One Election' (ONOE) Bill, describing it as a "Hitler-esque" attempt to dismantle India's federal structure and warning that its implementation could spark a nationwide public uprising.

Speaking to reporters in Guwahati, Gogoi alleged that the proposed legislation seeks to transform India from a federal democracy into a completely unitary state.

"'One Nation, One Election' is an attempt to transform India from a federal structure into a completely unitary one. It is a fascist move. We will never allow this attempt to dismantle our federal structure—where the Union and State governments coexist," he said.

The Raijor Dal leader asserted that the proposal goes against the principles of democracy and the Constitution, urging the Centre to withdraw the initiative.

"I demand that the 'One Nation, One Election' slogan be abandoned. It goes against democracy and violates the Indian Constitution and the spirit of the republic," Gogoi said.

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Drawing a sharp comparison, he claimed the move resembled authoritarian governance.

"The attempt to restructure the system in this manner is entirely akin to a Hitler-esque move. It must be stopped, or else a massive revolt will erupt across India," he said.

Warning of widespread protests, Gogoi said people across the country would be compelled to defend the country's democratic and federal character.

"The people's movement will grow, and citizens will be compelled to take to the streets to defend their republic," he added.

The Centre's proposal for simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies has triggered a political debate, with several opposition parties raising concerns over its constitutional, logistical and federal implications.