New Delhi: The concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ has garnered significant attention within the Indian political landscape. It aims to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and all state assemblies, a practice that was initially adopted post-independence until 1967.
However, the system of simultaneous elections was disrupted due to the premature dissolution of some state Assemblies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a vocal proponent of this idea since 2014, asserting that it would curtail wastage of public funds and ensure uninterrupted focus on development initiatives.
Let’s find out what is ‘One Nation One Election’.
History of One Nation One Election
In August 2018, the Law Commission of India released a draft report outlining the necessary steps to implement simultaneous elections. It proposed amendments to the constitution and electoral laws, along with the requirement for ratification from at least 50 percent of the states.
The commission highlighted various benefits, including cost savings, reduced strain on administrative resources, and enabling timely execution of government policies.
Financial considerations also play a significant role in the debate. Estimates suggest that elections to the Lok Sabha and legislative Assemblies incur substantial costs, exceeding Rs 4,500 crore for the Election Commission of India alone.
Also Read: Ram Nath Kovind-led panel submits ‘One Nation One Election’ report to President Murmu
To address this, parliamentary panels have recommended a phased approach to simultaneous elections, emphasising cost-effectiveness and logistical feasibility.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice proposed a two-phase method, with the first phase slated for November 2016. This approach entails adjusting the terms of some state Assemblies to facilitate simultaneous polls.
However, achieving consensus among political parties and navigating constitutional and logistical hurdles remain significant challenges.
Mixed response to One Nation One Election’
The proposal for ‘One Nation, One Election’ has sparked a mixed response among political parties in India, with some voicing support while others vehemently opposing it. Parties such as AIADMK, Biju Janata Dal, and Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) have thrown their weight behind the idea, seeing potential benefits in its implementation.
Supporters of the proposal argue that synchronizing elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies would streamline the electoral process, reduce logistical complexities, and save significant public funds. They believe that it would lead to better governance by minimizing disruptions and allowing elected representatives to focus on developmental work without being constantly embroiled in election campaigns.
However, the proposal faces staunch opposition from a majority of political parties. Critics raise several valid concerns, including the potential erosion of the democratic spirit. They argue that simultaneous elections could result in the dominance of national issues over local concerns, diluting the essence of regional representation in governance. Additionally, the need for constitutional amendments to facilitate such a significant overhaul of the electoral system presents a formidable challenge.
Opponents also highlight the diverse socio-political landscape of India, where each state has unique issues and priorities. They contend that simultaneous elections may overlook the nuanced complexities of regional dynamics, leading to homogenization of political discourse and policy formulation.
Moreover, critics stress the importance of preserving the federal structure of the country, which grants significant autonomy to states in decision-making processes. They fear that ‘One Nation, One Election’ could undermine this federal framework, centralizing power and weakening the voices of states in national discourse.
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