The concept of ‘One Nation, One Election‘ (ONOE) has gained traction as a potential solution to reduce electoral costs in India. Proponents argue that simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies would not only save substantial financial resources but also enhance political stability. However, a thorough examination of ONOE requires a holistic evaluation of its impact on various democratic institutions, accountability, the federal structure, and the overall health of India's democratic republican polity.
Goals of ONOE:
The primary goal of ONOE is to significantly cut down electoral expenses, as highlighted by the Centre for Media Studies, citing the 2019 Lok Sabha elections' staggering cost of ₹55,000 crore. The proposal aims to streamline the election process, reduce the engagement time of paramilitary forces, and enhance political stability by minimizing the duration of election campaigns.
Issues and Considerations:
Despite its potential benefits, ONOE raises significant concerns and necessitates careful consideration. One major issue revolves around the dissolution of the Lok Sabha or state assemblies before their term completion. The article suggests exploring alternatives like constructive no-confidence, a mechanism practiced in some European countries to ensure a smooth transition of power without compromising stability.
Constructive no-confidence, however, faces hurdles in India due to the existing anti-defection provisions. The article emphasizes the need for repealing or amending these provisions through a constitutional amendment for constructive no-confidence to be a viable alternative.
Stability vs. Accountability:
Stability in governance is crucial for a functioning democracy, but an undue emphasis on stability may inadvertently foster authoritarian tendencies. The article warns against sacrificing accountability at the altar of stability, citing the example of South Africa where ONOE contributed to arbitrary rule.
The concern is that ONOE could lead to a minority government scenario, impacting effective governance and increasing the potential for corruption and horse-trading. The article cautions against prioritizing stability to the extent that it shields the government from being held accountable on a regular basis.
Effect on Federal Structure:
The federal structure of India's polity, designed to address both local and national issues, faces a challenge with ONOE. The risk of voters conflating regional and national issues during simultaneous elections could undermine the representation of local aspirations and issues. The article cites an IDFC study indicating a 77 percent chance of a party winning at the Centre also winning in state assemblies, potentially neglecting state-specific concerns.
Cost Reduction and Transparency:
While the cost reduction is a significant factor in favor of ONOE, the article questions its effectiveness compared to alternative measures. It suggests that transparency in election funding and reforms in the mechanism of electoral bonds could be more viable and desirable ways to reduce election expenses. The opaqueness of electoral bonds and the government's reluctance to address these issues raise doubts about the genuine motivation behind ONOE.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the article argues that implementing ONOE requires a careful and complex constitutional amendment, addressing not only the duration of Lok Sabha and state assemblies but also the Tenth Schedule and other constitutional provisions. It emphasizes the need to balance stability and accountability, avoid eroding the federal structure, and explore alternative measures for cost reduction. The article calls for a comprehensive evaluation of ONOE's impact on India's democratic institutions before proceeding with such a significant constitutional change.
