Understanding One Nation, One Election: Implications for India

What is 'One Nation, One Election'?

'One Nation, One Election' refers to a proposal to conduct simultaneous elections for both the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies in India. This concept aims to synchronize all national and state-level elections, moving away from the current system where they are held separately. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a strong advocate for this initiative, and recently, the Union Cabinet accepted a report led by former President Ram Nath Kovind.

The History of Simultaneous Elections in India

The first general elections in India, held in 1951-52, included simultaneous elections for both the Lok Sabha and all state assemblies. This practice continued until 1967 when some state assemblies were dissolved prematurely, disrupting the election cycle. Since then, elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies have been conducted separately.

How Will 'One Nation, One Election' Change the Election Process?

If implemented, all Lok Sabha and state assembly elections would occur on the same day. This change would streamline the election schedule, reduce the frequency of elections, and potentially enhance the efficiency of the electoral process. Instead of continuous elections throughout the year in various states, citizens would experience a single election period once every five years.

Benefits of Simultaneous Elections

• Cost Reduction: One of the main advantages is the potential decrease in election-related costs. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections reportedly cost around ₹60,000 crores. By holding elections every five years, administrative and security expenses could be significantly reduced.
• Efficiency in Governance: Frequent elections often disrupt normal government functions, diverting officials to manage election duties. Simultaneous elections would allow the government machinery to concentrate on governance, minimizing administrative disruptions.
• Improved Voter Turnout: Supporters argue that simultaneous elections may increase voter participation by reducing election fatigue, consolidating the voting process.

Challenges in Implementing 'One Nation, One Election'

• Constitutional Amendments: Implementing simultaneous elections requires amendments to several constitutional articles, including Articles 83, 85(2)(B), 174(2)(B), 356, and 75(3). This necessitates a two-thirds majority in Parliament and approval from at least half of the states.
• Logistics: Conducting simultaneous elections across India demands extensive resources, including a large number of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), security forces, and polling staff. Coordinating this nationwide would present a massive logistical challenge.
• Impact on Local Issues: Critics argue that simultaneous elections might prioritize national issues at the expense of local matters. This could weaken the representation of regional parties and concerns.

Major Constitutional Changes Required

• Article 83: This article addresses the duration of the Lok Sabha, which is five years. It would need amendments to allow for simultaneous elections by adjusting the terms of sitting MPs.
• Article 85(2)(B): This provision allows the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha. To synchronize elections, amendments are necessary to prevent mid-term elections.
• Article 174(2)(B): Governors may dissolve state assemblies under this article. Amendments would ensure assemblies are dissolved in sync with the Lok Sabha.
• Article 356: This article permits the imposition of President’s Rule in states. Mechanisms should be developed to prevent disruptions affecting the synchronized election cycle.
• Article 75(3): This article deals with the collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers. Adjustments may be necessary to ensure governance stability during simultaneous elections.

Moreover, modifications to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, would be required to ensure smooth coordination between national and state-level elections.

Conclusion

'One Nation, One Election' could significantly transform India's electoral landscape by reducing costs, enhancing efficiency, and potentially increasing voter turnout. However, the proposal faces several challenges, including the need for constitutional amendments, logistical coordination, and addressing concerns regarding local representation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main goal of 'One Nation, One Election'?
Answer: The primary goal is to synchronize elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, reducing election frequency and costs while increasing governance efficiency.

Q2. What are the historical precedents for simultaneous elections in India?
Answer: India conducted simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies from 1951-52 until 1967, when disruptions began to occur.

Q3. What challenges does 'One Nation, One Election' face?
Answer: Key challenges include the need for constitutional amendments, logistical coordination, and concerns about overshadowing local issues in favor of national ones.

Q4. How could voter turnout be affected by this proposal?
Answer: Proponents believe that simultaneous elections could enhance voter turnout by reducing election fatigue and consolidating the voting experience.

Q5. Which constitutional articles need amendment for this proposal?
Answer: Articles 83, 85(2)(B), 174(2)(B), 356, and 75(3) require amendments to facilitate simultaneous elections in India.