The Indian government’s recent approval of the “One Nation, One Election” bill marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape. This initiative seeks to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha (Parliament) and State Legislative Assemblies, aiming to streamline the electoral process, reduce financial strain, and bolster governance efficiency. But what does this proposal entail, and how will it reshape India’s democratic framework? Let’s delve into its history, objectives, and broader implications.
What Is the “One Nation, One Election” Proposal?
The “One Nation, One Election” (ONOE) concept advocates conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and all state assemblies. This would eliminate the current practice of staggered elections, where different states go to polls at varying intervals. Under this framework, voters would cast their ballots for both the national and state governments on the same day.
Historical Context: The Journey So Far
Simultaneous Elections: A Practice Interrupted
India’s tryst with simultaneous elections began in 1951-52, the first general elections after independence. This practice continued seamlessly for three subsequent electoral cycles (1957, 1962, and 1967). However, political instability in the late 1960s—marked by the premature dissolution of several state assemblies and mid-term parliamentary elections—disrupted the cycle.
Key reasons for the shift included:
- Fragmentation of the political landscape with the rise of regional parties.
- The imposition of Article 356 (President’s Rule), leading to assembly dissolutions.
- Diverging timelines for assembly and parliamentary elections.
Government Push: The Role of the Kovind Committee
In September 2023, a high-level committee led by former President Ram Nath Kovind was formed to examine the feasibility of ONOE. The committee consulted stakeholders, legal experts, and political representatives, culminating in a comprehensive 18,626-page report submitted to the government. Its recommendations include:
- Two-phase implementation: Conducting Lok Sabha and assembly elections first, followed by local body polls within 100 days.
- Constitutional amendments: Changes to at least five articles (83, 85, 172, 174, and 356) to align election schedules.
- Uniform voter rolls: A common electoral roll for all elections, simplifying administrative processes.
Advantages of One Nation, One Election
1. Cost Efficiency
Elections in India incur significant costs, from security arrangements to administrative logistics. The Law Commission of India reported that holding simultaneous elections could reduce expenses drastically by sharing resources between central and state polls.
2. Minimizing Electoral Fatigue
Frequent elections disrupt governance, with leaders constantly in campaign mode. A synchronized election cycle ensures uninterrupted policymaking and governance.
3. Strengthening Federal Structure
By aligning election schedules, ONOE can promote cooperative federalism, fostering synergy between central and state governments.
4. Economic Gains
The Kovind Committee highlighted that ONOE could contribute an estimated 1-1.5% boost to GDP by reducing election-induced economic disruptions.
Challenges in Implementation
1. Constitutional and Legal Hurdles
Implementing ONOE necessitates amending multiple constitutional provisions, particularly those governing the tenure and dissolution of assemblies.
2. Consensus Among States
States must align their election schedules with the national timeline. Resistance from regional parties, which fear losing autonomy, remains a significant obstacle.
3. Logistical Complexities
Conducting simultaneous elections for over 900 million voters requires unprecedented coordination in resources, including polling stations, electronic voting machines (EVMs), and manpower.
Election Commission’s Preparedness
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has expressed its readiness to handle simultaneous elections administratively. However, it has emphasized the need for legislative backing and infrastructural enhancements to ensure smooth execution.
Opposition Perspectives
The ONOE proposal has sparked widespread debate:
- Supporters, primarily from the ruling BJP, argue that it will revolutionize governance and democratization.
- Critics, including the Congress party, warn that ONOE could undermine India’s federal structure, concentrating power at the center.
Key Steps for Implementation
- Constitutional Amendments: The government must introduce bills to amend relevant articles, followed by ratification by at least half the states.
- Stakeholder Consultations: Building consensus among political parties and regional leaders is crucial.
- Phased Execution: A gradual rollout, starting with a pilot phase in select states, could mitigate challenges.
A Visionary Yet Contentious Reform
The “One Nation, One Election” initiative represents a bold stride toward enhancing India’s electoral efficiency. While its potential benefits—cost savings, governance stability, and cooperative federalism—are compelling, addressing the legal, logistical, and political challenges will determine its success. As the nation debates this transformative proposal, it remains imperative to prioritize democratic values and inclusivity.
